Backyard Hen Coop Permits

In 2013, the Champaign City Council passed an Ordinance allowing and regulating the keeping of backyard hens within the city limits.

• Read the Champaign Hen Ordinance – Municipal Code Section 7-19

Overview

• A license must be issued to legally raise hens.
• No roosters are allowed.
• Up to six hens are allowed.
• Chicken coops must be located in the backyard.
• Only residents of single family and two-family homes are eligible for a coop license.
• Chicken coops must have a minimum of four square feet per hen.  The run must have a minimum of eight square feet per hen and be covered on all sides, including the top.
• Residents failing to comply with Sec. 7-19 – Hens, and all applicable sections of the Champaign Municipal Code, will be subject to enforcement action.

Licensing

Residents must obtain a coop license to raise hens.  This license has a $25 fee.  The online map tool from the Champaign County GIS Consortium can be very helpful when completing the license application.  The last page of the application includes a worksheet that offers tips for using the map tool.

• Download a Coop License Application

Applicants must also register their property with the Illinois Department of Agriculture  in order to obtain a coop license.  Registration with the Illinois Department of Agriculture is free.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I am interested in raising hens?

After reviewing reference resources, contact local hen owners via Facebook groups or seek additional information from the University of Illinois Extension Service.  Raising hens requires long-term commitment, yet many people find it rewarding.  Contact the Planning and Development Department at 217.403.8800 for additional questions.

Online Resources

• Champaign County Extension
• Backyard Chickens
• Purina Mills information on poultry

If I have a noise or odor complaint regarding chickens, who do I call?

Call the City’s Code Compliance Division of the Neighborhood Services Department at 217-403-7070.

If I see a chicken crossing the road, who do I call?

Chickens are not allowed to be outside of an enclosure.  Call Champaign County Animal Control at 217-384-3798 or the 24-hour number at 217-333-8911.

What should I do if my neighbor has chickens, but I am unsure if they have a license?

Call the Planning and Development Department at 217-403-8800.

Other Questions? 

Please contact the Planning and Development Department at  217-403-8800 or [email protected].