Board OKs allowing small numbers of hens and ducks on lots under an acre; BMPs to guide larger rural stocking

The Board of County Commissioners voted June 3 to allow residents on lots under one acre to keep up to 10 laying hens or ducks without a special permit, and to apply best‑management practice (BMP) stocking rates for parcels of one acre or larger.

Planner Angeline Jacobs reviewed the county’s current poultry rules and a comparison of how surrounding counties treat urban poultry. County code previously allowed six hens on parcels less than five acres and larger allowances in agricultural zones; the Board discussed a simplified approach for the urban cluster and small residential lots. Jacobs noted the county’s comprehensive plan specifically addressed urban‑cluster residential areas and that rural‑cluster and agricultural areas have different expectations.

Commissioners recommended harmonizing rules with local agricultural guidance and University of Florida/IFAS BMPs for stocking density on larger parcels. Several commissioners said a 10‑bird limit is reasonable for lots under one acre and that ducks and similarly non‑crowing fowl should be included. The Board directed staff to return with draft code language implementing a 10‑bird allowance for parcels under one acre and IFAS‑based BMPs for larger parcels; the motion passed by voice vote.

Staff also noted code elements that already apply: no roosters are permitted in residential zoning, birds must be secured in covered coops and sanitary maintenance standards apply, and sales of poultry or egg products from residential lots are prohibited unless otherwise allowed.

What comes next: staff will draft ordinance language to reflect the 10‑bird allowance for parcels under one acre, clarify species coverage (hens and ducks), and propose BMP‑based stocking rates for rural and agricultural parcels for Board consideration at a future public hearing.