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Chickens, bees and urban farming in Fairfax County, VA

Chickens and other poultry are allowed only on lots of 2 acres or more, at one bird unit (32 chickens) per acre. Roosters only on working farms. Up to four beehives are allowed on any lot.

A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Fairfax County before you build.

The details

  • Poultry: lots of 2 acres or more. Coops 50 ft from lot lines (100 ft if part of agriculture).High confidence
  • Bees: four hives on any lot. More on lots of 10,000 sq ft or larger with 2,500 sq ft per extra hive. Water within 50 ft. A 6 ft flyway barrier when a hive entrance faces a lot line within 10 ft.High confidence
  • A garden up to 100 sq ft may go in the front yard, 15 ft from the front line. Composting isn't allowed in the front yard.High confidence

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Common questions

Can I keep backyard chickens or bees in Fairfax County?
Chickens and other poultry are allowed only on lots of 2 acres or more, at one bird unit (32 chickens) per acre. Roosters only on working farms. Up to four beehives are allowed on any lot.

Sources

  1. Fairfax County Zoning Ordinance § 4102.7.J, keeping of animals (and the Keeping of Animals flyer). Checked 2026-10-21
    The keeping of livestock or poultry, excluding roosters, is allowed as an accessory use on any lot of two acres or more in size... 32 chickens [=] 1 bird unit [per acre]... The keeping of honeybees in four beehives or less is allowed as an accessory use on …
  2. Fairfax County Zoning Ordinance § 4102.7.A(5), (6), (17), rear setback coverage, freestanding accessory structures, swimming pools. Checked 2026-10-21
    All accessory structures and uses may cumulatively cover no more than 30 percent of the minimum rear setback on any lot located in a conventional residential district... [Coverage includes] children's play equipment, sports court, pool and associated deckin…

Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.