Backyard Chickens

Having backyard chickens is legal in NSW.  In residential areas you are allowed a maximum of 10 hens, and no roosters.

An adequate coop is required for keeping chickens on your property.  Only one coop is allowed on each property and it must adhere to the following guidelines:

• Located at the rear of your backyard
• At least 3 meters distance from each boundary and 4.5 meters from any dwelling
• A maximum of 1.8 metres above ground level and 10 square metres of floor area
• Must be paved with concrete, mineral asphalt or clean sand underneath roosts or perches
• Materials for construction are to blend in with the environment and be non-reflective
• Must be at all times kept clean and free from offensive odour.

If you land is located in a foreshore area you are unable to install a chicken coop.

For more information you can refer to the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008.