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Council grants partial‑fence variance for chicken coop at 2224 Donagle Drive
Summary
The Darien City Council approved a variation allowing fencing only around the chicken coop/run at 2224 Donagle Drive rather than the property's entire rear perimeter, after council discussion about neighborhood impacts and ordinance intent.
The Darien City Council on June 1 approved a variation under city code to allow fencing only around the portion of the rear yard containing a chicken coop and run at 2224 Donagle Drive, rather than requiring a fence around the entire rear perimeter.
Alderwoman Sullivan and other council members emphasized the ordinance's original goal — to prevent chickens from being visible to neighbors who object — and said the proposed partial fence would meet that objective while avoiding an unnecessarily large perimeter fence on a large lot. Staff confirmed a building permit for the coop/run was pending and that the structure would be inspected to ensure the chickens remain enclosed within the fenced area.
The council discussed precedent concerns but said each variance is analyzed on its facts; they noted the municipal process includes neighbor notification for variations. The motion to approve was carried 7–0.
Next steps: staff will inspect the coop/run under the building permit process and enforce compliance if required.
