Are chickens allowed in your Belknap County town? If you’re living in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire and dreaming of collecting fresh eggs from your own backyard hens—or just want to know if your neighbor’s rooster is legal—you’re not alone.
Backyard chickens have become increasingly popular across the Lakes Region for their fresh eggs, natural pest control, and even their quirky personalities. But before you start building a coop or buying feed, it’s important to know the specific chicken laws in your town. Regulations vary widely from town to town—and if you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, their rules can override your town’s ordinances.
Let’s break it down by town:
Alton, NH
Allowed? Yes, but with restrictions.
Key rules:
Up to 6 hens only (no roosters or crowing birds).
Chickens are for personal, non-commercial use.
Coops and runs must meet design specifications and are not allowed in front yards.
Barnstead, NH
Allowed? Yes.
Key rules: The town allows chickens for residential use. No special restrictions noted, but always double-check with the planning office.
Belmont, NH
Allowed? Yes, with conditions.
Key rules:
Minimum lot size: 1 acre.
Coops must be at least 50 feet from property lines, wells, and water bodies.
Contact the town for limitations on the number of chickens.
Canterbury, NH
Allowed? Yes.
Key rules: No specific restrictions currently listed.
Gilford, NH
Allowed? Yes.
Key rules: Chickens are permitted on residential properties.
Gilmanton, NH
Allowed? Yes.
Key rules: Chickens are permitted. Review local zoning for coop placement and other details.
Laconia, NH
Allowed? Limited.
Key rules: Chickens are only allowed in certain residential zones. Contact the zoning office to verify your neighborhood.
Loudon, NH
Allowed? Yes.
Key rules: Chickens are allowed on residential properties.
Meredith, NH
Allowed? Yes, conditionally.
Key rules: The town allows “agriculture compatible with residential use,” but it’s best to check with the town about your property’s zoning.
New Hampton, NH
Allowed? Yes, with limitations.
Key rules:
In the village district, up to 12 chickens are allowed for personal use.
Roosters and commercial breeding are prohibited.
Coops must be located in the rear of the property.
No more than 25 chickens in the mixed-use district.
Sanbornton, NH
Allowed? Yes.
Key rules: Chickens are permitted for residential use.
Tilton, NH
Allowed? Sometimes.
Key rules: Chickens are only allowed by special exception in specific districts. You’ll need to contact the town to apply and get approval.
Just Want Fresh Eggs Without the Commitment?
If you’re not quite ready to raise chickens yourself but still want farm-fresh eggs, check out my guide on Where to Find Fresh Eggs in Belknap County. There are plenty of local farmers and small homesteads in our region who’d love to share their bounty.
Final Thoughts: Do Your Chicken Homework
Town rules aren’t always black and white—so before you start building a coop or bringing home hens, check the official ordinances and call your town hall for the latest info. And don’t forget: if you’re part of an HOA, they may have more restrictive rules than your town does.
This is Christine Johnson, your favorite Lakes Region real estate agent. Whether you’re dreaming of a chicken-friendly homestead or searching for a cozy backyard in the Lakes Region, I can help you find the perfect spot.
