Can I keep chickens in Hudson, NH?
Yes, with conditions — Hudson allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 5 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 25 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (Chapter 99, § 99-21 (Chickens), Ordinance No. 7-21 (adopted Feb. 1, 2021), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 5 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit required | Yes ($50) |
| Coop setback | 25 ft |
| Coop rules | Coop and enclosure in rear yard only; min 25 ft from adjacent residential structures/decks/patios on abutting property; min 10 ft from licensee's own property line; annual license from City Clerk required (initial $50, renewal $20); restricted to one-family dwellings in residential zones. |
| Code section | Chapter 99, § 99-21 (Chickens), Ordinance No. 7-21 (adopted Feb. 1, 2021) |
Hudson requires an annual license (initial $50, $20 renewal) to keep up to 5 hens at a one-family residence in a residential zone. Roosters are prohibited, chickens must be kept in the rear yard, and coops must be at least 25 feet from neighboring residential structures and 10 feet from the licensee's own property line. Licenses are approved by the Common Council and administered by the City Clerk.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Hudson?
Yes, with conditions — Hudson allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Chapter 99, § 99-21 (Chickens), Ordinance No. 7-21 (adopted Feb. 1, 2021)).
How many chickens can I keep in Hudson?
Up to 5 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Hudson?
Yes — Hudson requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens (fee: $50).
Are roosters allowed in Hudson?
No — roosters are prohibited in Hudson.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Hudson?
25 feet minimum. Coop and enclosure in rear yard only; min 25 ft from adjacent residential structures/decks/patios on abutting property; min 10 ft from licensee's own property line; annual license from City Clerk required (initial $50, renewal $20); restricted to one-family dwellings in residential zones.
What law covers backyard chickens in Hudson?
Chapter 99, § 99-21 (Chickens), Ordinance No. 7-21 (adopted Feb. 1, 2021). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Chapter 99, § 99-21 (Chickens), Ordinance No. 7-21 (adopted Feb. 1, 2021) — read the official code
“§ 99-21.F.1: Shall keep, harbor or maintain not more than five chickens on residential zoned property. § 99-21.F.2: Shall not keep, harbor or maintain any roosters or male chickens. § 99-21.E.1.d: A coop and any attached enclosure shall be located a minimum of 25 feet from adjacent residential structures, decks or patios on an abutting property and a minimum of 10 feet from the licensee's property line.” source
Last verified June 14, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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