Backyard Chickens :: Northlake

On March 7, 2023, the City Council approved an ordinance that allows residents to keep chickens (hens only) in the rear yards of their single-family home, with a permit issued by the City.

Overview:

A permit must be obtained before keeping chickens (hens only) and a coop.
Only residents of single-family homes (R1 Zoning District) are eligible for backyard chicken permits and a minimum lot size of 7500 square feet. Check your property’s zoning here: ZONING MAP.
Up to 6 hens and no less than 2 are allowed. No roosters.
Chicken coops are allowed as a type of accessory structure and must be at least 10 feet from all property lines.
The coop must have a minimum of 4 sq ft per hen and a maximum of 50 sq ft will be permitted for both the covered enclosure/structure. The outdoor run must have a minimum of 8 sq ft per hen and a maximum of 100 sq ft.
Residents who do not comply with Municipal Codes Section 2-5-5B-1 will be subject to enforcement action.
For more information, please review the Keeping Backyard Chickens Packet.

Applications:

Residents must obtain a permit to raise hens and require the following:

Chicken Keeping Permit Application
A plat of survey showing the chicken coop location and setbacks from the property lines
Chicken coop plans
Electric plans (if applicable)
The permit has a $25 fee.

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?

Contact local hen owners or seek additional information online, particularly through local groups such as the Chicagoland Chicken Enthusiasts. Raising hens requires long-term commitment and would be suggested that if you are unfamiliar with raising chickens you attend a local workshop on raising chickens to ensure adequate preparation.