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Commission opens discussion on allowing backyard hens; asks staff to research models and draft ordinance language
Summary
Commissioners discussed a possible backyard chicken program (hens only), including permit caps, education requirements and code-enforcement oversight. Staff was asked to research other municipal programs and return with draft ordinance language and options.
The commission discussed whether to permit backyard chickens in residential areas under a controlled program and asked staff to research best practices and draft ordinance options.
Commissioner Azbadi introduced the idea, proposing a limited, controlled allowance for hens (no roosters), potentially tied to lot size (for example, more permissive on parcels of 1 acre or larger), and suggested reducing or eliminating an $800 fee tied to hearings. He proposed streamlining the process with an affidavit and an administrative fee similar to fence permits.
Staff reported examples from other Florida jurisdictions: most municipalities limit backyard hens to a small number (commonly up to four hens), prohibit roosters, and treat permits as accessory uses with processing fees; some municipalities require completion of an educational course, for example an inexpensive University of Florida extension course, before issuance. Winter Garden limits permits to 25 per year and charges a $50 processing fee; Orlando and others permit hens in certain residential zones with limits and placement, setback, sanitation and predator-protection requirements.
Staff said enforcement would fall under code enforcement, that permits are typically nontransferable, that applications from tenants require owner authorization, and that ordinances often prohibit slaughter on-site, restrict egg sales to personal use, and include requirements for carcass disposal and handling during animal-disease events such as avian influenza. Commissioners volunteered to serve as points of contact for drafting and outreach: Commissioner Azbadi offered to be the point person; staff (Mike and Sasha) agreed to work with him and return with draft language and comparisons to nearby municipalities.
No ordinance was adopted; the commission instructed staff to return with more detailed options, sample ordinance text and suggested permit structures for further consideration.
