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Owensboro discusses draft backyard‑hen framework: 5 hens, no roosters, permits proposed
Summary
City manager Nate presented a draft framework to allow backyard hens in residential zones with a proposed five‑hen limit, no roosters, secured covered coops, setbacks and a nominal permit; the commission opened the item for public feedback via owensboro.org/chickens.
City staff presented an initial framework for allowing backyard hens in Owensboro residential zones and asked the public for feedback, city manager Nate told the City Commission on July 15.
Nate described the proposal as discussion‑stage only and said no action or first reading was scheduled. “If we were to allow ordinance, we would envision a 5 hen max,” he said, adding the city would prohibit roosters and require covered, secured coops and setback distances from neighboring houses.
The draft would allow hens for personal use only; commercial production would be excluded and homeowner‑association covenants would remain enforceable, staff said. The city would require a nominal permit so officials know where birds are located and could enforce rules; fines for unpermitted birds were also discussed.
Nate reported the proposal drew from surveys of roughly 15 peer cities, which commonly set limits of five or six hens. He said most peer cities had not needed to revise rules often, and staff will provide additional follow‑up information about how long ordinances have been in place and whether any adjustments were necessary.
The commission directed staff to post a summary and a feedback form at owensboro.org/chickens and promised to return with a summary of public input and a possible subsequent presentation to consider moving forward.
Because the item is introductory, the commission took no vote; the discussion was intended to solicit public comment and refine regulatory details before any ordinance drafting.
