Warren City Council adopts revisions to Chapter 149 (Animals), tightening rules for backyard fowl and clarifying prohibitions

The Warren City Council on May 19 voted 6–0 to adopt amendments to Chapter 149 (Animals) of the Warren City Code that update which animals are permitted within city limits and set permit and siting requirements for structures such as chicken coops.

City staff member (presenter) explained the ordinance revision was drafted after an increase in inquiries and complaints about keeping animals in the city. The revised chapter clarifies what animals are permitted, specifies the number and type of allowed fowl, and updates requirements for coops and runs. The presenter said the ordinance also formalizes a process so the planning department can follow up and verify compliance when residents obtain a zoning permit for a chicken coop.

During public comment and council Q&A, residents asked whether free-range poultry would be allowed. The presenter said free-range chickens are not permitted and that coops and runs must meet location and covering requirements; the ordinance also prohibits roosters. The presenter explained that existing properties with animals exceeding new limits will be grandfathered so long as they predate the ordinance; new coops must comply with the updated code and a zoning permit will be required. On the sale of eggs, the presenter noted Pennsylvania food laws require sellers to identify the origin of eggs at farmers markets and other sales, and sellers must comply with those state rules.

Council moved to adopt the ordinance as drafted. City Clerk Colleen Leary called the roll; Miss Flasher, Mr. Cashman, Mr. Gilbert, Mrs. McCain, Mr. Valella and Mayor Wertman voted yes. The motion carried 6–0.

The adopted ordinance updates definitions and enforcement procedures for animals in the city, requires permits for chicken coops and similar ancillary structures, bans roosters and free-range poultry, and maintains prohibitions on larger livestock including cows and horses.