HomeMy WebLinkAboutRecommended Ordinance ElementsRecommended Elements to include in an urban poultry ordinance:
• Maximum of 4 Hens per residential plot
o If additional plots are to permit additional chickens, a special waiver /permit system is
recommended that may require an inspection. Otherwise the language should state
"...per residence"
• Roosters are not permitted
o As it is possible for rooster chicks to be obtained without knowledge of sex, with time
then necessary to remove the rooster once identified, the ordinance may consider
stating "Roosters over the age of 8 weeks old are not permitted"
• Annual registration is required with the city. At this time, the state - mandated registration
would also take place through city hall. An annual administrative processing fee of no more
than $10.00 is recommended.
o City staff will provide a brochure to registrants that provides additional information on
raising chickens, chicken coops, who to contact if chickens are no longer wanted or
roosters are identified, composting instructions, and other valuable information
• No chicken enclosure, food storage, or waste compost shall be located closer than 25 feet to any
residential structure on an adjacent lot.
o This is the language from the city of Neenah
• The slaughter of chickens is prohibited
o An exception to this may include commercial and food industry sites that have obtained
necessary approval and /or permits to process meat
• No person shall keep any fowl in unsanitary conditions or in a manner that creates an odor
nuisance.
o This language is from both the city of Neenah as well as the city of Madison. The
enforcement of this provision would be similar to the enforcement of dog odor
nuisances.
• Hens shall be provided an enclosed, predator -proof insulated enclosure that is adequately
ventilated, sufficient to admit free movement of the chickens with at least 3 square feet per
chicken in size, in addition to a chicken run. Chicken yards, pens, chicken coops must be so
constructed or repaired as to prevent rodents from being harbored underneath the same or
within the walls thereof. The enclosure must not create neighborhood blight.
• Hens must have regular access to food and water (at least daily). Food must be stored in a
manner that prevents rodent and pest issues.
o Chicken health requirements would be similar to the general well -being requirements of
dogs
• City health staff and /or inspections staff retain the right to inspect chicken enclosures with
issues of objectionable odors, issues of human or bird health, or concerns of sanitation