Skip Navigation
Page Background
Close
 

Overview

On November 18th 2013, The Anne Arundel County Council passed Bill 79-13 regarding chickens and ducks in residential districts. The bill permits keeping or maintaining chickens and ducks on a lot of less than 40,000 square feet. Roosters are strictly prohibited on lots less than 40,000 square feet. A County resident keeping chickens or ducks on a lot less than 40,000 square feet for any length of time must obtain and maintain a license. Keeping of ducks and chickens on lots greater than 40,000 square feet does not require an Anne Arundel County License. 

How to

  • Register your chickens using the “Maryland Poultry Registration Form”. Include a copy with your permit application.
  • Review requirements for chicken coop and enclosed run. You must have an approved coop and run PRIOR to having any chickens
    • See “Animal Outdoors” of Anne Arundel County Code 12-4-801 to ensure all regulations are followed.
    • Note: Coops and enclosures for chickens and ducks on lots less than 40,000 square feet shall be located at least 25 feet from a side or rear lot line and 25 5 feet from any dwelling. For more information, please contact Zoning at (410) 222-7437.
    • See “Pets; livestock or fowl” of Anne Arundel County Code 18-4-104 to determine how many chickens or ducks may be possessed based on the lot size you possess. 
  • Build your coop and enclosed run according to requirements outlined. (see Anne Arundel County Code 18-4-104, 12-4-709, 12-4-710 and 12-4-801)
  • Complete and sign the Chicken and Duck License Application. 
    • In order to be considered for approval, thoroughly read the conditions and initial next to each. 
    • Don’t forget to print and sign your name with the date at the bottom of the application. 
  • Submit all completed permit applications and paperwork along with the site plan and payment of $30.00 for the registration and inspection fee. Checks are made payable to the Anne Arundel County. Applications accepted at: Anne Arundel County Animal Control 411 Maxell Frye Road Millersville, MD 21108 
  • Schedule an inspection. 
    • YOU MUST HAVE PASSED YOUR INSPECTION BEFORE YOU WILL BE ISSUED A LICENSE. YOU MUST POSSESS A CHICKEN AND DUCK LICENSE PRIOR TO BRINGING CHICKENS OR DUCKS TO THE PREMISES.
  • Do more research on chickens! Peruse the internet, take a class on raising chickens, and attend forums. A list of useful websites can be found on the “Useful Sources” page.

Fees

Permit fee costs $30.00

Location

411 Maxwell Frye Road
Millersville, MD 21108
(410) 222-8900

Contact