Egg prices have soared to record highs, leaving many homeowners searching for alternative ways to secure fresh eggs. With the cost of a dozen eggs reaching an average of $4.95 in January 2025, a 53% increase from the previous year, interest in urban farming and backyard chickens has grown nationwide. However, Anniston residents should take note of local pet restrictions before considering raising poultry.

Anniston’s Pet Policy: What’s Allowed and What’s Not

According to DCCRs Article 10, Section 10.14, Anniston’s regulations prohibit raising or keeping livestock or fowl, which includes chickens. While some homeowners in other communities have turned to backyard chickens as a solution to rising egg prices, Anniston’s restrictions prevent residents from breeding, raising, or keeping poultry on any property within the community. The policy is in place to maintain neighborhood aesthetics, reduce noise, and prevent potential sanitation issues.

Permitted Pets

Residents are allowed to keep common household pets, including:

• Dogs and Cats (limited to three per category per household)

• Other household pets (subject to approval and restrictions)

However, pets cannot be bred, kept, or maintained for commercial purposes, and any pet that becomes a nuisance or annoyance to neighbors may be subject to removal by order of the Board of Directors. Additionally, all pets must be leashed and controlled when outside of their owner’s lot.

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The Urban Farming Trend vs. Anniston’s Rules

With egg shortages and inflation impacting grocery prices, urban farming has gained popularity among single-family homeowners. Across the U.S., many communities have loosened restrictions on backyard chickens, citing benefits such as self-sufficiency, sustainability, and access to fresh eggs.

However, Anniston maintains its stance against backyard poultry, prioritizing community standards, property values, and neighborhood harmony. For residents looking for fresh eggs, alternative solutions include supporting local farmers' markets, co-ops, or egg subscription services rather than raising chickens in their own backyards.

Final Thoughts: Understanding Anniston’s Pet Restrictions

While urban farming and backyard chickens are growing trends, Anniston’s community rules prohibit poultry and livestock, limiting residents to household pets such as dogs and cats. With egg prices expected to remain high in the near term due to ongoing avian flu outbreaks and supply chain disruptions, homeowners should explore other options to offset costs while staying compliant with neighborhood regulations.

For those considering adding pets or making changes to their property, reviewing Anniston’s DCCR guidelines and seeking approval from the Board of Directors can help prevent potential conflicts and ensure a smooth experience.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.