Coeur D'Alene considers goat use for weed abatement in Meadow Ranch community

The Coeur d'Alene City Council convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss a unique proposal aimed at enhancing community safety and environmental management through the use of goats for weed abatement. The initiative, brought forth by the Meadow Ranch Homeowners Association, seeks to amend city code to allow homeowners associations to utilize goats in designated open spaces, particularly in areas with steep terrain and dense vegetation that pose fire hazards.

Currently, city regulations permit only public entities to employ goats for weed control within city limits. The proposed amendment would enable homeowners associations to apply for permission to use goats, providing a natural and environmentally friendly solution to manage overgrown areas that are difficult to maintain. The application process would involve submitting a request to the city clerk's office, which would then be reviewed by the police department to ensure compliance with specific guidelines aimed at minimizing potential nuisances, such as noise and odor.

Council members expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its innovative approach to addressing fire risks in the community. The police department has already researched how other cities manage similar programs, implementing restrictions on the number of days goats can be used and prohibiting unneutered males due to their strong odor. This careful planning aims to balance the benefits of using goats with the need to maintain neighborhood peace.

While the current proposal is limited to homeowners associations, some council members suggested that the ordinance could be expanded in the future to include individual homeowners with larger properties. This would allow more residents to benefit from this sustainable method of weed control, particularly in areas prone to wildfires.

The council plans to monitor the program's effectiveness over the coming year, with the potential for adjustments based on its success and any challenges that arise. This initiative not only addresses immediate environmental concerns but also reflects the community's commitment to innovative solutions that enhance public safety and quality of life in Coeur d'Alene.