Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zoning Animals topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Palm Bay council votes 4–1 to raise allowed backyard chickens from four to six
Summary
After public comment and a split Planning & Zoning recommendation, Palm Bay council approved an ordinance to increase permitted backyard chickens from four to six in several residential zoning districts; roosters remain prohibited and accessory structures require permits.
Council adopted an amendment to Title 7, Chapter 174 of the City Code to increase the number of backyard chickens allowed on single‑family lots in specified residential zoning districts from four to six. Growth Management Director Lisa Frasier presented the textual amendment; staff recommended approval while the Planning & Zoning board had recommended denial citing lot‑size and accessory structure concerns.
Council held a lengthy public comment period with residents both supporting and opposing the change. Supporters said the amendment reduces regulatory burdens and prevents the ordinance from being used "as a weapon" in neighbor disputes; opponents raised concerns about noise, odors and the potential for feral chickens on smaller lots.
Frasier explained enforcement limitations — code compliance cannot regularly inspect backyards, and staff proposed courtesy notices for complaints and permit checks. The ordinance preserves existing rules that prohibit roosters and requires accessory structures to be permitted; staff noted accessory structure permits are processed but that inspection resources are limited.
On roll call the measure passed 4–1 (Councilmen Johnson, Hammer, Langevin and Deputy Mayor Jaffe voted yes; Mayor Medina voted no). Council directed staff to prepare implementation language and public guidance on permit requirements and nuisance reporting.
