Charlotte permits up to 6 hens in residential zones with a conditional use permit. The 25-foot setback from adjacent dwellings is the key constraint on smaller lots. Here's the full process.
Charlotte Quick Summary
Maximum hens: 6 · Roosters: Prohibited · Permit: Conditional Use Permit required · Setback: 25 ft from any adjacent dwelling · Code: Charlotte City Code § 3-170
Charlotte's Conditional Use Permit Process
Charlotte requires a conditional use permit (CUP) for residential chicken-keeping, administered through the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Planning Department. The CUP process is more involved than a simple use permit — it requires a site plan, an application fee, and a staff review. For straightforward applications with no neighbor objections, Charlotte has streamlined the process to administrative approval without a formal hearing.
The 25-Foot Adjacent Dwelling Setback
Charlotte's 25-foot setback is measured from the coop to the nearest wall of any adjacent dwelling — not just the property line. On Charlotte's typical suburban lots (60–80 feet wide), this means the coop needs to be placed carefully. If your neighbor's house is 15 feet from your shared property line, your coop must be at least 40 feet from your property line on that side to maintain 25 feet from their dwelling.
Key Rules
Maximum 6 hens per single-family residential property
Roosters are prohibited in all residential zones
25 ft setback from any adjacent occupied dwelling structure
Rear yard only
CUP required — application fee approximately $125
No annual renewal
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Unincorporated Mecklenburg County areas have separate rules from Charlotte city limits. County rules are administered through Charlotte-Mecklenburg County's Zoning Administration. Unincorporated areas are generally more permissive than Charlotte's city rules. Confirm your parcel's jurisdiction using the Mecklenburg County GIS mapping tool before relying on city rules.
Charlotte's standard residential zones do not permit goats — including miniature breeds. This contrasts with Wake County's more permissive approach. Goat keeping in the Charlotte area requires property in unincorporated Mecklenburg County or in a residential zone with agricultural overlay designation. Contact Charlotte-Mecklenburg Planning at (704) 336-2205 for confirmation of current rules for your specific district.
Disclaimer: General informational guidance only. Ordinances vary and change frequently. Always verify with your local planning department before acquiring animals.