Keeping of Poultry and Fowl

Keeping Chickens, Ducks, and Other Poultry or Similar Fowl in Norwich

(Residential Properties – Non-Commercial Use)

This guide provides a summary of zoning requirements for keeping poultry or similar fowl on residential properties in the City of Norwich.

This is a general guidance sheet only. The keeping of animals is fully regulated under the Norwich Zoning Regulations: Section 4.3.D, Section 4.3.D.2, Section 4.3.D.3 (Table 15), and Section 4.3.D.4.

What Counts as Poultry or Similar Fowl

Chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, pigeons, and other similar domestic birds.

Where Poultry is Allowed

R-80, R-40, R-20, R-15, and R-10 zones.

Minimum Lot Size

Minimum ½ acre required.
 A ½ acre lot allows up to 6 birds (½ animal unit).
 Properties smaller than ½ acre are not permitted to keep poultry.

Number of Birds and Permit Requirements

Norwich uses an animal unit system:

  • 12 birds = 1 animal unit 
  • 6 birds = ½ animal unit 

½ acre to less than 1 acre:
 Up to 6 birds — no permit required

1 acre:
 Up to 12 birds — no permit required

Larger lots:
 Additional animals allowed based on total animal units

A zoning permit is required when animal unit limits are exceeded (Section 4.3.D.2).

Animal limits are based on the total number of animal units on the property, not just poultry. On lots of 2 acres or more, multiple types of animals may be combined. If total animal units exceed the allowed limit, a permit is required.

Roosters

Allowed only in R-80 and R-40 zones.
 Not allowed in other residential zones.

Coops and Enclosures

A coop and enclosed run are required.
 The enclosure must be fully enclosed on all sides.
 A zoning permit is required for the construction of a coop or enclosure.

Setbacks, Location, and Manure Storage

Coops and enclosures must be at least 25 feet from side and rear property lines.
 Animal enclosures cannot be located between the house and the street.

Manure storage must comply with setback requirements and shall not exceed 2 cubic yards in bulk.

General Requirements

Animals must not create noise, odor, or unsanitary conditions and must not negatively impact neighboring properties.