Clinton City Council considers regulations for residential chicken coops and runs

In a recent Clinton City Council meeting, discussions centered around updating the city’s ordinance regarding residential chicken coops, reflecting a growing interest in urban agriculture among residents. A key recommendation from a poultry expert at Utah State University highlighted the importance of requiring covered chicken runs to prevent disease spread from migratory birds, a significant concern for local poultry health.

The proposed ordinance changes aim to enhance biosecurity measures by mandating that chicken runs be covered with mesh or screening. This adjustment is crucial as it addresses potential health risks associated with wild birds coming into contact with domestic chickens, which can lead to disease outbreaks that affect both local flocks and egg prices nationwide.

Council members debated the implications of these changes, particularly regarding existing chicken owners. The discussion included whether to grandfather current coops that do not meet the new standards. It was noted that while some residents may currently be out of compliance, those with existing permits might retain their rights unless they make significant changes to their setups.

Another point of contention was the maximum number of chickens allowed per lot. The council considered increasing the limit from ten to twelve for larger properties, with some members suggesting that larger lots should accommodate more birds, provided they can manage them responsibly. This proposal aligns with recommendations from the agricultural expert, who suggested that a higher cap could be reasonable for larger residential lots.

The council also discussed the permit fee for chicken coops, proposing a one-time fee of $40, which some members felt was justified given the administrative work involved in processing applications. Additionally, the council considered setback requirements for coops and runs, with a preference emerging for a five-foot setback from property lines, which would align with existing regulations for other structures like sheds.

As the council moves forward with these discussions, the focus remains on balancing the interests of residents who wish to keep chickens with the need for public health and safety regulations. The proposed changes aim to foster a supportive environment for urban agriculture while ensuring that health standards are maintained. The council plans to finalize these updates in upcoming meetings, reflecting a commitment to adapting local ordinances to meet the evolving needs of the community.