Can I keep chickens in Springfield, MA?
It's unclear — Springfield's code does not clearly address backyard chickens; confirm with the city. (Springfield Code Ch. 110 §110-12 (Animals), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Unclear |
|---|---|
| Code section | Springfield Code Ch. 110 §110-12 (Animals) |
Springfield's animal code defines chickens as livestock and prohibits keeping livestock except as allowed by the zoning ordinance. The zoning code is silent on backyard chickens in residential zones, and chickens are explicitly excluded from the definition of domestic animal, creating an ambiguous status.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Springfield?
It's unclear — Springfield's code does not clearly address chickens; contact the city (Springfield Code Ch. 110 §110-12 (Animals)).
How many chickens can I keep in Springfield?
It depends on your lot. Chickens classified as livestock; prohibited unless zoning allows; residential zoning is silent on chickens — de facto prohibited for most residents.
What law covers backyard chickens in Springfield?
Springfield Code Ch. 110 §110-12 (Animals). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Springfield Code Ch. 110 §110-12 (Animals) — read the official code
“No person shall keep any livestock animals on his/her property except as otherwise allowed by Springfield Zoning Ordinance or state law. Livestock animals include, but are not limited to: cattle, horses, swine, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, geese, and rabbits.” 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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