Can I keep chickens in Newton, MA?
Yes, with conditions — Newton allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. (Newton Health Department Rules and Regulations for the Keeping of Animals and Live Fowl (adopted November 1, 1982), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Permit required | Yes |
| Coop rules | Coop must be at least 200 feet from high water mark of any drinking water supply or tributary; at least 50 feet from any well; coop must be elevated, of durable construction, properly ventilated, screened; manure storage must be ventilated and watertight |
| Code section | Newton Health Department Rules and Regulations for the Keeping of Animals and Live Fowl (adopted November 1, 1982) |
Newton requires a Health Department license to keep live fowl (including chickens). The 1982 regulations do not state an explicit maximum hen count; the license specifies the number and conditions on a case-by-case basis. Coops must be kept away from water supplies. Advocacy efforts exist to update regulations to explicitly allow 6 hens.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Newton?
Yes, with conditions — Newton allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Newton Health Department Rules and Regulations for the Keeping of Animals and Live Fowl (adopted November 1, 1982)).
How many chickens can I keep in Newton?
It depends on your lot. Health Dept license specifies quantity case by case; no explicit hen count limit found in 1982 regulations; de facto subject to Health Dept discretion. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Newton?
Yes — Newton requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
What law covers backyard chickens in Newton?
Newton Health Department Rules and Regulations for the Keeping of Animals and Live Fowl (adopted November 1, 1982). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Newton Health Department Rules and Regulations for the Keeping of Animals and Live Fowl (adopted November 1, 1982) — read the official code
“Any person desiring to keep animals or live fowls shall apply to the Newton Health Department for a license. Such license shall contain a statement of the number and kind of creatures licensed and such conditions as may be required by the Department.” source
“All coops and other such buildings shall be located not less than 200 feet from the high water mark of any known source of drinking water supply or any tributary thereof, or less than 50 feet from any well.” source
Last verified June 15, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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