Belbrook Council Approves New Zoning Allowance for Small Livestock Ownership

During the Bellbrook City Council meeting on August 25, 2025, significant discussions centered around the proposed amendments to the zoning ordinance, particularly regarding the allowance for small livestock within residential districts. This initiative aims to create a framework for future regulations concerning the ownership of animals, such as chickens, in residential areas.

City Manager Rob provided an overview of the proposed zoning changes, which focus on defining small livestock and establishing necessary requirements such as setbacks and structures. While the ordinance does not specify particular animals at this stage, it lays the groundwork for future development of an animal code that will address specific guidelines.

Council members engaged in a dialogue about the implications of the proposed ordinance, particularly addressing concerns raised by community members. One notable point of discussion was the requirement for sheltering structures to be located within a fully enclosed fenced yard. Clarifications were made to ensure that this could be interpreted as either a fenced yard or a fenced area, alleviating concerns about potential misinterpretations.

Public input was welcomed during the meeting, with resident Aline Buxton expressing gratitude for the council's efforts to find a balanced approach to the ordinance. She acknowledged the collaborative spirit of the discussions and highlighted the need for a streamlined variance process to avoid unnecessary resource expenditure. Buxton suggested that variance notifications should be limited to properties directly affected, rather than extending to homes further away, which could lead to inefficiencies.

Following the public hearing, the council moved to adopt the amended ordinance 2025-O-12, which passed unanimously. This decision marks a significant step towards accommodating responsible small livestock ownership in Bellbrook, reflecting the council's commitment to addressing community needs while ensuring regulatory clarity.

The council also introduced a new ordinance, 2025-O-14, indicating ongoing legislative efforts to adapt to the evolving needs of the Bellbrook community. As the city continues to navigate these changes, residents can anticipate further discussions and developments in local governance.