Hallandale Beach City Commission Approves 18-Month Urban Chicken Program Pilot

The Hallandale Beach City Commission convened on August 20, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including the implementation of an urban backyard chicken program and amendments to zoning regulations.

The meeting began with a proposal for a pilot program allowing residents to keep chickens in their backyards. Initially set for a two-year duration, the program's timeline was a point of contention. A commissioner proposed amending the pilot to 18 months, expressing concerns about potential issues such as free-ranging chickens attracting predators. The amendment aimed to provide residents sufficient time to rehome their chickens if the program proved problematic. After discussion, the commission voted in favor of the 18-month pilot program, with all members supporting the motion.

Following the chicken program discussion, the commission addressed an ordinance to amend the zoning and land development code. This ordinance aimed to repeal regulations related to the Central City Business (CCB) zoning district and the Planned Redevelopment Overlay (RDO) district. The commission had previously adopted this ordinance on August 6, 2025, with a unanimous vote. During the public hearing, no audience members spoke, and the commission swiftly moved to approve the ordinance on second reading, again achieving a unanimous vote.

In summary, the meeting highlighted the commission's commitment to exploring urban agriculture through the chicken program while also streamlining zoning regulations to facilitate development in Hallandale Beach. The next steps include monitoring the chicken program's implementation and its impact on the community.