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Planning commission backs allowing up to six hens on lots under 20,000 sq ft; unanimous recommendation to council
Summary
The commission unanimously recommended City Council approve an amendment to the animal ordinance to allow up to six hens on lots less than 20,000 square feet with restrictions: no roosters in residential zones, coop and setback standards, feed storage requirements, and prohibition on commercial sale from small lots.
The Morgan City Planning Commission on July 15 unanimously recommended that the City Council adopt an amendment to the city’s animal ordinance to allow chickens on smaller urban lots with specific rules.
Jake (city staff) presented the draft amendment to ordinance 10.16.090, noting the current code allows up to 25 chickens per 20,000 square feet and that many city lots are smaller than that threshold. The proposed amendment would allow lots under 20,000 square feet to keep up to six hens, prohibit roosters in residential zones, and set standards for coops and runs.
Key draft provisions presented to the commission included: - Maximum of six hens on lots smaller than 20,000 square feet; existing allowance of larger numbers on larger lots would remain subject to other code provisions and possible conditional‑use review. - No roosters in residential zones (staff noted the city could extend that prohibition citywide if desired). - Coop and run setbacks: 5 feet from side and rear property lines, 25 feet from any dwelling on adjacent property. - Coop height limit of 8 feet and a 120 square‑foot maximum coop footprint; predator‑proofing, ventilation and weather protection required. - Maintenance and sanitation standards: manure removal at a regular cadence (staff suggested “regularly” or weekly), feed stored in rodent‑proof containers, and birds confined to the owner’s property. - Prohibition on slaughtering poultry on residential property and a prohibition on commercial sale of eggs from lots under 20,000 square feet.
Public commenters were largely supportive of legalizing backyard hens on smaller lots; speakers cited cost savings on eggs, pest control and family benefits. Some residents urged careful enforcement language and clarity about peacocks and other fowl. Animal control concerns and enforcement practicalities were discussed: the city’s enforcement officer noted the importance of clear, enforceable nuisance standards rather than provisions that would be difficult to verify in the field.
After discussion the commission voted unanimously to forward a favorable recommendation to the City Council, with staff asked to correct typographical issues and confirm cross‑references before the council hearing.
