Veterinarians
Can I keep backyard chickens in Madison?
A common question, answered by the MadisonWI.com editors · November 10, 2026
1 answer
From MadisonWI.com
Yes, with a license. The City of Madison allows up to eight chickens on a lot with up to four dwelling units. Roosters aren't allowed, and neither is slaughtering chickens on site. The birds must stay in a covered or fenced enclosure at all times, and the enclosure has to be at least 25 feet from any home on a neighboring lot. Whoever keeps the chickens (owner, operator or tenant) needs a City chicken license, applied for within 30 days of getting the birds and renewed each year before January 1; you also register with the state (Wisconsin DATCP) first. If you rent, or the property has more than one unit, you must notify the property owner and all residents of your plan. The City can revoke a license after repeated violations. Other communities have their own rules. Source: City of Madison Building Inspection, Chicken License (checked November 2026).
Written by the MadisonWI.com editors · November 10, 2026