Chesapeake Beach considers new regulations for backyard chickens and sign limits

The Planning Commission of Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, convened on March 26, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including regulations on signage and the potential for allowing backyard chickens within town limits.

The meeting began with a review of prohibited signage regulations. Commission members expressed a desire to simplify the existing rules, aiming for a clearer, bullet-point format that would make it easier for residents to understand what types of signs are not permitted. Discussions highlighted the complexity of the current regulations, prompting a decision to postpone further deliberation on this topic until the next meeting. The commission agreed to revisit the issue of temporary signage in April, along with general sign regulations.

Following the signage discussions, the commission shifted focus to the topic of backyard chickens. A member introduced the idea, referencing a recent Facebook post that generated significant community interest in the subject. The discussion revealed that several nearby jurisdictions, including Annapolis and Howard County, have successfully implemented regulations allowing residents to keep chickens, typically permitting a small number of hens while prohibiting roosters.

The commission noted that current Calvert County regulations require a minimum lot size of three acres for chicken ownership, which is considerably larger than the requirements in other towns. Members discussed the potential benefits of allowing chickens, including environmental advantages and the philosophical argument for property rights. They acknowledged that many homeowners' associations (HOAs) may still restrict chicken ownership, but expressed interest in drafting a local ordinance that could accommodate residents who wish to keep chickens.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore both signage regulations and the backyard chicken proposal in future sessions, reflecting the commission's ongoing efforts to engage with community interests and streamline local regulations.