The proposed zoning code changes permit single-family homeowners with lots of 15,000 square-feet or larger to own up to six chickens.
“If any of those things don’t happen or don’t continue to be maintained properly, then the city can pull the permit,” said Daniel Archibald, the planning commission vice chair.
The zoning code changes have to be approved by the city council before city residents can legally own chickens.
If city council approves the new regulations, a sunset provision included in the changes would allow the law to be effective for a year. Then the council would have to re-evaluate the law and could make changes.
In addition to chicken ownership, the proposed zoning code changes are also related to permanent and temporary signs.
The city planning commission considered similar legislation in 2012, but did not recommend approval. The same year, city council removed a similar chicken-related provision from legislation that was being considered.
“I’ve had some conversations with citizens back and forth,” said Charles Curran, a planning commission member. “I have some trepidation about this. I guess I could support it with that sunset clause…”
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