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Planning commission backs zoning change to clarify backyard chickens in residential districts
Summary
The Rockbridge County Planning Commission unanimously recommended a zoning text amendment clarifying that exemptions for gardening and up to six female chickens apply only to residential districts, retaining a one-acre minimum lot size, a 20-foot rear/side setback for structures and a requirement that chickens be penned; no public comments were received.
The Rockbridge County Planning Commission on June 10 unanimously recommended that the Board of Supervisors approve a zoning text amendment clarifying rules for keeping chickens and gardening in residential districts.
Staff presented draft language narrowing the existing exemption so it applies specifically to Residential zoning districts rather than to “any district allowing residential uses.” Under the recommended text, residents would be allowed to keep up to six female chickens on lots of at least one acre; roosters would be prohibited. Any chicken pens or structures must be located in the rear yard at least 20 feet from side and rear property lines, and chickens must be contained within the pen at all times. The revision removes a vague provision that previously exempted gardens and chickens if they were not “objectionable by reason of odor, dust, noise, pollution, soil erosion, sedimentation, or drainage.”
Chair Tom Beebe opened a public hearing; no members of the public spoke. Commissioner Adam Sandridge moved to recommend the amendment to the Board of Supervisors; Commissioner Jay Melvin seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Why it matters: The amendment narrows the reach of the current code language and replaces an open-ended "objectionable" standard with specific, tiered requirements (lot size, setback, containment) so county staff and neighbors have clearer, enforceable standards when disputes arise. The Planning Commission packet and a revised draft were made available for public review.
What’s next: The Commission—recommended the Board of Supervisors approve the amendment; the Board will schedule its own public hearing and vote. Staff noted that the use of keeping chickens remains permitted in agricultural zoning districts and that the draft does not change rules for nonresidential districts.
