Mount Pleasant commission debates backyard chicken ordinance, including bird limits and slaughter rules

The Mount Pleasant City Commission took up a work‑session review of a proposed ordinance to allow backyard chickens on May 26, 2026, hearing public support and concerns and directing staff to draft ordinance language for future consideration.

Manager Desense presented model provisions used by other Michigan communities and a draft local approach that would permit hens (no roosters), require a two‑year permit, include inspections, and allow revocation for violations. "At our last discussion, the commission said no roosters," Desense said, while reviewing permit terms and a proposed $150 initial fee and $75 renewal.

Public commenter Abby Fenny, speaking during the earlier public input period, urged permissive rules: "As long as coops are kept properly maintained, they cause no more odor than keeping a dog," she said, and argued for low or no permit fees and no requirement that neighbors provide permission. Fenny also asked that cities not prohibit backyard slaughtering, saying residents process fish and deer at home.

Commissioners debated the details for roughly an hour. Commissioner Deur said he would not oppose chickens but asked for limits and clear parameters to protect neighbors. "I would not stand in the way of that, but the proper parameters need to be put up," Deur said. Vice Mayor Ek raised public‑health concerns and asked staff to include a plan for addressing potential disease outbreaks and for enforcement should a permit be revoked. "We need to be considerate of people who don't necessarily want chickens around them," Ek said.

Opinions diverged on numeric limits and species. Commissioner Rollins pointed to existing ordinances for cats and dogs as a guide and recommended not being more restrictive than current pet rules; others suggested phased increases at permit renewal if owners show responsible husbandry. Commissioner Scalitzki emphasized coup size and humane conditions and argued that chickens often reduce ticks and can be kept responsibly.

The commission did not vote on ordinance language. Staff will draft a formal ordinance for future work‑session review and a public hearing; commissioners asked staff to return language that addresses (a) maximum bird counts and renewal limits, (b) required setbacks or containment, (c) a fee calculated to recoup inspection costs, (d) whether ducks are allowed, and (e) how to handle on‑site slaughtering and enforcement when a permit is revoked.

Next steps: the city attorney will prepare a draft ordinance reflecting the questions raised and bring it back to the commission for additional public comment and a formal hearing.