Can I keep chickens in Warwick, RI?
Yes, with conditions — Warwick allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. (Zoning Ordinance Sec. 204, Use Table 1 (Raising and Keeping of Animals and Livestock), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Permit required | Yes |
| Minimum lot size | 217,800 sq ft |
| Code section | Zoning Ordinance Sec. 204, Use Table 1 (Raising and Keeping of Animals and Livestock) |
Warwick requires a Special Use Permit from the Zoning Board of Review to keep chickens, available only to owner-occupants of at least 5 contiguous acres under the same ownership. Since most residential lots are far smaller than 5 acres, chickens are effectively prohibited for nearly all residents.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Warwick?
Yes, with conditions — Warwick allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (Zoning Ordinance Sec. 204, Use Table 1 (Raising and Keeping of Animals and Livestock)).
How many chickens can I keep in Warwick?
It depends on your lot. Special use permit required from Zoning Board; must be owner-occupant of minimum 5 contiguous acres (approx. 217,800 sq ft) — effectively prohibited on standard residential lots. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Warwick?
Yes — Warwick requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens.
Is there a minimum lot size for chickens in Warwick?
Yes — 217,800 sq ft.
What law covers backyard chickens in Warwick?
Zoning Ordinance Sec. 204, Use Table 1 (Raising and Keeping of Animals and Livestock). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
Zoning Ordinance Sec. 204, Use Table 1 (Raising and Keeping of Animals and Livestock) — read the official code
“Raising of livestock, (chickens/rooster/goat/pig) is a violation of Section(s) 204 of Use table 1 of the City of Warwick Zoning Ordinance... (5) Provided that raising and keeping of animals and livestock is by an owner-occupant of the property which shall consist of a minimum of five contiguous acres in the same ownership.” 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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