Roy planners recommend allowing chickens and rabbits on single‑family lots in multifamily zones

The Roy City Planning Commission unanimously moved March 10 to forward to the city council proposed amendments allowing chickens and rabbits on single‑family properties located in R2, R3, R4 and R5 zones, while keeping existing requirements for coop size, setbacks and runs.

Staff said the change extends the rights already provided to single‑family owners in other zones so that single‑family properties inside multifamily zoning districts are treated consistently. "All aspects of the code remain the same. It's just allowing those in the multifamily zones to have chickens," staff said.

Public comment was mixed. Shelley Pollston framed the issue as a property‑rights question and cautioned about potential constitutional limits on local regulation, saying elected officials should "be careful when you start mandating what people can and can't do on their property." Other speakers, including Glendmore and Austin Garcia, voiced support for expanded backyard animal rights. Kevin Homer supported the staff recommendation but flagged a technical concern: several small lots under the current 6,000 square‑foot threshold cannot qualify even if they meet setbacks, and Homer suggested an exception process for well‑situated small lots.

Commission discussion emphasized balancing property rights against neighbor health, safety and nuisance protections. Commissioners noted the 6,000‑square‑foot minimum was discussed in work sessions and that a case‑by‑case exception process could address the small‑lot concern; staff confirmed property owners can request code amendments or variances where appropriate.

A motion to forward a positive recommendation passed in a roll‑call vote; the commission recorded unanimous support. The ordinance will next be considered by the Roy City Council.