If you're hoping to have fresh eggs right at home, we've got an idea. Here’s what you need to know about owning chickens in the different parts of Northern Virginia.

Starting from chicken scratch

Chicken-keeping regulations vary across Northern Virginia, with each county and city setting its own zoning and livestock rules. For a complete breakdown of local requirements, permits, setbacks, and flock limits, visit this website.

How many chickens can I have?

Here’s the amount each county/city allows:

Arlington County: Up to 24 chickens per one acre
Fairfax County: Up to 32 per one acre or land on properties that are two acres or more
Alexandria: Up to 4 hens
Loudoun County: Depends on zoning
Prince William County: Up to 10 chickens per one-acre lot
Fauquier County: Depends on zoning

What’s the (s)coop?

Regulations for chicken coops vary from county to county, so be sure to review the requirements that apply to your specific property before building a coop or bringing home chickens.

Want local eggs without the chickens?

If you want locally sourced eggs without having your own chickens, here are three places in Northern Virginia where you can get fresh eggs.

Happy Morning Farm | Sterling
Super NOVA Eggs | Delivers throughout NOVA
Hidden Gems Farm | Centreville