Planning staff (Fred, S11) presented a proposed text amendment to Articles 8 and 14 of the Concord Development Ordinance to allow goatscaping — the temporary use of goats for ground clearing and invasive plant removal — under a temporary use permit. "Goatscaping will require a temporary use permit to be issued, at a cost of $40," staff said, adding that permits would not exceed 21 days within any 90‑day period.

Staff said the amendment would limit goatscaping to professional vendors, require vendor information, a work timeline, a map of the goatscaping area, and include requirements for fencing, signage, shelter, water and site cleanup. The proposal includes liability provisions placing responsibility on the applicant and/or vendor in the event of damaged property or an escape.

Staff reported research of other North Carolina municipalities found few with explicit goatscaping rules; Asheville specifically addresses livestock for nuisance plant removal while Charlotte and Chapel Hill evaluate requests case‑by‑case. Staff described a site visit to a Huntersville subdivision where a vendor used roughly 16–18 goats on an acre‑and‑a‑half lot and noted that two‑week work periods are typical.

Council members asked about enforcement and whether code enforcement or police would handle violations; staff confirmed both could be involved and said vendors would need to demonstrate business licensing and liability insurance. Council members also asked whether homeowners’ associations could override permits in private subdivisions; staff indicated HOAs could limit activity as typical covenants would remain in force.

No final vote was taken; staff recommended the council consider the text amendment at a later formal meeting after any desired revisions.

What to watch: final ordinance language, permit process and whether the council narrows time limits or adds lot‑size restrictions when the item returns for formal action.