Live Fowl Permit Information

Boston residents must secure a Use of Premises permit from Inspectional Services to keep chickens on their property. The application requires several documents, including a certified plot plan and a maintenance strategy, followed by an inspection and approval from the Zoning Board of Appeals. Each property is limited to six adult hens and six chicks, with roosters prohibited to mitigate noise issues. Coops must be structurally sound, maintained to deter pests, and kept clean to avoid attracting rodents. The regulations also mandate that coops be located in the rear yard, set back from property lines, ensuring compliance with local zoning laws.

Residents are advised to engage proactively with neighbors, as those living nearby can voice their opinions on the permit application. This initiative reflects Boston's effort to support urban agriculture while addressing community concerns about noise and sanitation. The process emphasizes both personal responsibility and community engagement in maintaining quality of life.