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Board says owners must seek permits after two chicken complaints
Summary
The board reported two complaints about backyard chickens; one owner was unaware a permit was required and will apply, while another property could not be contacted. Inspectors flagged a coop that does not meet setback requirements.
The Town of Blackstone Board of Health reported two separate complaints about backyard chickens and said inspectors educated owners and recommended permitting and relocation where necessary.
Speaker 3 told the board that Kevin and they inspected both properties after receiving complaints. "One property, we spoke with the property owner. He was not aware that a permit was required to keep fowl in the town," Speaker 3 said. For that property, the owner agreed to apply for a permit after staff explained the rules. At the other address the inspectors were unable to make contact and did not confirm the presence of chickens; staff reported dead grass in a backyard that could indicate a coop but saw no clear evidence on inspection.
Speaker 3 also said one observed coop did not conform with required setbacks and will need to be moved to meet regulations. There was no record in the meeting of a formal enforcement action at this session; board staff said they educated owners and will follow up on permit applications and any necessary adjustments to structures.
Next steps: the owner who agreed to apply will file for a permit; staff will continue attempts to contact the second property and will report back to the board if further action is necessary.
