Keeping chickens in the garden: how it's allowed in Switzerland
More and more people in Switzerland are interested in keeping chickens in their own garden - be it for fresh eggs, natural fertilizer or out of love for the animal. But before you get started, the question arises: Are you even allowed to keep chickens in your garden in Switzerland? And if so, under what conditions, at what cost and what regulations need to be observed?
This comprehensive guide gives you a clear overview of the legal situation regarding keeping chickens in a private setting in Switzerland. You will learn which requirements must be met for species-appropriate husbandry, which beginner's mistakes must be avoided at all costs and how the investment pays off in the long term. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hobby keeper - this article will help you to keep your chickens responsibly, safely and in compliance with the law.
Keeping chickens in the garden - what is (and is not) permitted in Switzerland
In principle, keeping chickens privately is permitted in Switzerland if certain conditions are met. The Swiss Animal Welfare Act (TSchG) and the Animal Welfare Ordinance (TSchV), supplemented by local building and zoning regulations of the municipalities and cantons, are decisive in this respect.
Legal basis for keeping hobby chickens
According to Article 3 of the Animal Welfare Ordinance, chickens may not be kept individually, as they are considered social animals. At least two animals must be kept together. If the group consists of more than ten animals, extended requirements apply - for example with regard to lighting, ventilation and feed supply.
The hutch must offer protection from the weather, provide sufficient space and be equipped with perches, nests and dry bedding. A secure run is also mandatory. The exact conditions are described in the directives of the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO).
Do I need a building permit for the chicken coop?
In most cases, no explicit permit is required for 2 to 10 chickens. Nevertheless, it is worth going to the local municipal administration - especially if you live in a purely residential zone or the coop is relevant under building law (e.g. over 2.5 m² floor area or solid ground).
Some municipalities require a "simplified building permit", especially in rural areas or near protected zones. Information on this can be obtained from the building authority or cantonal agricultural office. Remember: chicken coops are often considered ancillary buildings - but not always.
What about noise and conflicts with neighbors?
Although chickens are quiet animals, the cockcrow in particular often causes conflicts. In residential areas, the FSVO recommends not keeping a cockerel - as it is not necessary for egg production. In the event of persistent complaints, animal welfare or building inspections may be carried out.
The following also applies to pure hobby keeping: the keeping must comply with animal welfare regulations. Veterinary offices can carry out inspections - especially if there are indications of abuses or hazards. Violations can result in fines or, in serious cases, a ban on keeping animals.
Species-appropriate chicken husbandry in the Swiss climate
The Swiss climate places certain demands on keeping chickens outdoors. There are different weather conditions from Graubünden to the Lake Geneva basin - the construction of the henhouse and the layout of the run must be adapted accordingly.
Can chickens live outside all year round?
Yes - provided that the coop and run are adapted to the respective climate. Cold per se is less of a problem for chickens than humidity or draughts. Therefore, the coop and nests should always be dry, well insulated and ventilated.
In regions with heavy snowfall, a reinforced coop structure is recommended. In addition, part of the run can be fitted with protective tarpaulins or a solid shelter so that the animals can also scratch outside in winter.
Which breeds are suitable for Swiss hobby owners?
Not every breed is equally suitable. Many Swiss keepers opt for robust, peaceful animals that cope well with the weather and lay eggs regularly. Particularly popular chickens for the garden are:
- Sussex - friendly, weather-resistant, winter-loving
- Orpington - calm temperament, good cold resistance, trusting
- Appenzeller Spitzhauben - Swiss breed of origin, agile, needs space
- Grünleger - lay colorful eggs, visually appealing, frugal
Pay attention to space requirements: Light breeds are more active, fly more often and need higher fences. Heavy breeds are calmer - but need more shed space per animal.
How to design the hutch and run correctly
A well-designed coop and a safe run form the basis for healthy chicken farming. Stable and protective structures are particularly important in Switzerland with its topographical and climatic peculiarities.
How big should the henhouse be?
Each hen should have at least 0.3 m² of henhouse space - 0.5 m² is better. Make sure that the coop is
- is dry, insulated and draught-free
- has raised perches and a droppings board
- contains laying nests, a feeding place and a drinking trough
Wood is widely used as a hutch material, but should be well impregnated and regularly treated against mites. Plastic coops are easy to clean, but have poorer insulation properties. Swiss suppliers such as LANDI or Hühnerstall-Schweiz.ch offer practical construction kits.
What is important for a chicken run?
The run must offer at least 1.5 m² per hen - more is better. Ideally, you should offer your chickens varied areas with sand baths, shady areas and a structured environment. Think about:
- an escape-proof fence 160 cm high
- 30 cm buried to protect against foxes and martens
- Safety net against birds of prey, especially in mountainous regions
A mobile free-range pen that is moved regularly has proved very successful - this keeps the ground natural and the animals always have fresh grass. An automatic chicken flap with a timer is suitable for closing at night.
How much does it cost to keep chickens in Switzerland?
The financial aspects of keeping chickens are important for many beginners. Although an initial investment is required, it can be worthwhile in the long run - not only because of the eggs, but also through the use of kitchen waste and your own fertilizer.
Typical purchase and operating costs
- Chicken coop: CHF 300-1500 (depending on type and size)
- Chickens (4-6 chickens): CHF 100-300
- Fence material and protective netting: CHF 150-500
- Feed and water containers, laying nests: CHF 100-200
Expect start-up costs of between CHF 1000-2000 depending on the requirements and size. The running costs average around CHF 400-600 per year for feed, litter and accessories. For six hens, this means an annual egg yield of a good 1200 eggs - which corresponds to a saving of around CHF 540 for organic free-range quality.
Added to this are soft factors such as animal welfare, sustainability and self-sufficiency from the garden - a clear added value for many keepers.
Avoid common mistakes - tips for sustainable chicken farming
Especially in the initial phase, many problems arise due to a lack of planning or knowledge. However, with a little preparation, these common mistakes can be easily avoided.
Sources of error and solutions
- Too little space in the coop - leads to stress, illness and cannibalism
- Moist litter - ideal environment for parasites such as the red mite
- No quarantine for new arrivals - risk of infection for the flock
- Insufficient protection from predators - frequent cause of nocturnal animal losses
Care, observation and feeding
Feed a varied diet: grain mixtures, vegetable scraps and herbs should supplement the basic feed. Shell lime supports eggshell formation. Fresh water must be available daily. Regular cleaning of the coop, including a bath with diatomaceous earth, prevents mite infestation.
Keep a hen diary with laying performance, weight, behavior, etc. - this will help you identify any abnormalities at an early stage. Even small changes can indicate health problems.
Conclusion: Keeping chickens responsibly - how it works in the Swiss garden
Keeping chickens in the garden is not only legally possible in Switzerland, it is also ecologically and emotionally enriching. With the right knowledge, a little planning and a species-appropriate environment, you can keep a stable and healthy flock of chickens in the long term.
Find out about local regulations at an early stage, invest in an animal-friendly infrastructure and make time for daily checks and care. In this way, you can offer your animals a safe home - and in return receive fresh eggs, natural fertilization and a close connection to nature.
Now it's your turn: plan your chicken coop, get the necessary information from your local authority - and start your sustainable garden project with heart and joy!
Frequently asked questions about keeping chickens in Switzerland (FAQ)
How many chickens am I allowed to keep as a private individual?
In Switzerland, keeping up to 10 chickens is considered a hobby and is generally permitted without a special permit. It is important to comply with the Animal Welfare Ordinance and municipal building regulations.
Do you need a cockerel for the hens to lay eggs?
No - hens lay eggs even without a rooster. A cockerel is only needed for reproduction. Keeping them in residential areas is often problematic because of cock-a-doodle-doo.
What do I do with chickens in winter?
With an insulated coop, frost-free water and a dry area in the run, chickens can also be kept in the Swiss winter without any problems. Ventilation is more important than heating.
Can I supplement chicken feed with kitchen waste?
Yes - chickens are allowed to eat many vegetable and fruit scraps. However, avoid strongly seasoned, raw meat or moldy food. Always offer additional grains and calcium.
What to do about mites in the coop?
Keep the hutch dry, clean it weekly and dust it with diatomaceous earth. In case of heavy infestation, special stable paints or veterinary products can help. Prevention is essential.