Bellbrook planning board recommends zoning amendment to allow limited small livestock in residential areas

The City of Bellbrook Planning Board on June 26, 2025 voted to recommend that City Council adopt a proposed amendment to Article 18 of the Bellbrook zoning code that would allow limited small livestock in residential areas, subject to permits and specific size, siting and care requirements.

City staff member Rob Schumer, who presented the draft ordinance (planning board case PB 25-03), said the amendment was prepared after staff, legal review and Council input identified inconsistencies between the zoning code and the municipal animal ordinance. Schumer said the draft "defines and allows the keeping of small livestock provided certain criteria and regulations are met," including a required zoning permit and measures to limit noise, odor and public-health impacts.

The proposed rules set maximum numbers tied to lot size: lots smaller than a half-acre would be limited to three small livestock; half-acre to 1 acre, six; 1 to 2.5 acres, 12;…