Can I keep chickens in Utica, NY?
No — Utica does not allow backyard chickens in residential zones. (Utica City Code Sec. 2-5-56 (Fowl—Prohibited), verified September 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | No |
|---|---|
| Coop rules | Previously-issued permits are grandfathered until the birds die, at which point the permit is not renewed. |
| Code section | Utica City Code Sec. 2-5-56 (Fowl—Prohibited) |
Utica bans keeping or offering to sell any fowl (chickens, geese, ducks, pigeons, or doves) within city limits. A narrow grandfather clause lets previously-permitted flocks live out their natural lives, but no new backyard chickens are allowed.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Utica?
No — chickens are not allowed in Utica (Utica City Code Sec. 2-5-56 (Fowl—Prohibited)).
What law covers backyard chickens in Utica?
Utica City Code Sec. 2-5-56 (Fowl—Prohibited). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Utica City Code Sec. 2-5-56 (Fowl—Prohibited) — read the official code
“No person shall have, or keep, or offer to sell any fowl within the City of Utica. "Fowl" includes any live chickens, geese, ducks, pigeons, or doves.” source
“No person shall have, or keep, or offer to sell any fowl within the City of Utica. "Fowl" includes any live chickens, geese, ducks, pigeons, or doves.” source
“Any permits previously issued shall be grandfathered until such time as the fowl are deceased and at that time said permits shall expire and no new permits shall be granted.” source
Last verified September 27, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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