Sudbury ZBA approves two residential chicken permits, sets expiration for Dec. 8, 2030

The Sudbury Zoning Board of Appeals on Dec. 8 approved two special permits allowing residents to keep backyard chickens, voting unanimously to grant six-bird limits at 20 Linden Road and 12 Trillium Way, with both permits set to expire on Dec. 8, 2030.

Meredith Phelps and Joshua Phelps appeared for 20 Linden Road and reported a current flock of four birds and no neighbor complaints; the board noted earlier permits had allowed up to 12 birds and said the board has generally been granting up to 10. Despite that history, the motion approved at the meeting limited the Phelps permit to six chickens. Chair John Riordan moved to approve the Special Permit for 20 Linden Road; Clerk Frank Riepe and members Jennifer Pincus and Alex Dorjets joined the unanimous roll call vote.

Don Byrne and owner Marilyn McDonald sought renewal for 12 Trillium Way, reporting the flock had been downsized from seven to four and requesting approval for up to six chickens. The board described the coop as well-maintained and noted neighbors have reacted positively; the minutes record the coop was described as visible and ornamental and nicknamed "Cluckingham Palace" by neighbors. The board approved the six-chicken limit by unanimous roll call.

Board members and applicants emphasized proper coop upkeep. The minutes note that both households maintain clean coops, dispose of waste appropriately and use bedding shavings, and that applicants understood that eggs may not be sold commercially but can be given away.

Both approvals were recorded as roll call votes with Mr. Riordan, Mr. Riepe, Ms. Pincus and Mr. Dorjets voting "Aye." Each permit was recorded to expire on Dec. 8, 2030. The board did not record any neighbor complaints during these hearings and set no additional conditions beyond the standard permit requirements.