Last updated on October 19, 2025
No, you’re not allowed to keep chickens in urban areas of Austria without notifying the authorities — and in some cases, you’ll need formal approval.
Austria’s love for nature and sustainability might make backyard chickens seem like a wholesome idea, but in cities like Vienna, Graz, and Linz, poultry keeping is regulated with surprising precision. The rules vary by municipality, but they all share one thing: you can’t just set up a coop and hope no one notices.
In Vienna, for example, the Tierhaltungsverordnung (Animal Keeping Ordinance) requires residents to notify the city if they plan to keep chickens in residential zones. This isn’t just bureaucratic fuss — it’s about hygiene, noise control, and animal welfare. The ordinance outlines space requirements, mandates proper waste disposal, and restricts rooster ownership due to noise complaints. If you’re keeping more than 10 birds, you may need a permit and veterinary oversight.
The legal framework is backed by Austria’s national animal protection law, the Bundesgesetz über den Schutz der Tiere (Tierschutzgesetz), which emphasizes responsible care and public health. Municipal authorities like Vienna’s Magistratsabteilung 60 (MA 60) enforce these rules and handle registrations. Failure to notify or comply can result in fines or forced removal of the animals — especially if neighbors raise concerns.
Still, urban chicken-keeping is on the rise, especially among eco-conscious Austrians. With proper registration, coop design, and neighborly diplomacy, it’s entirely possible to enjoy fresh eggs in the heart of the city — just don’t wing it without checking the rules.
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Sources
Tierhaltungsverordnung Wien – RIS (Rechtsinformationssystem des Bundes)
https://www.ris.bka.gv.at/Vwgh