Yes, backyard chickens are generally permitted in Vietnam, but compliance hinges on municipal ordinances and veterinary health protocols. Urban districts often impose size limits, while rural areas face stricter biosecurity measures under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD). Recent 2026 draft amendments to Decree 11/2020/ND-CP may tighten registration requirements for flocks exceeding 50 birds.
Key Regulations for Keeping Backyard Chickens in Vietnam
- Zoning Restrictions: Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi prohibit poultry in residential zones unless licensed under local ordinances (e.g., Decision 15/2023/QD-UBND of HCMC). Exemptions apply only to small flocks under 20 birds in designated rural communes.
- Health Certifications: MARD mandates annual avian influenza vaccinations and health certificates from provincial veterinary departments for flocks over 50 birds. Unregistered birds face quarantine under Circular 07/2016/TT-BNNPTNT.
- Biosecurity Protocols: Flocks must be separated from public areas; free-ranging is banned in outbreak zones per Directive 13/CT-TTg (2024). Violations trigger fines up to VND 20 million under Law 32/2018/QH14.