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Council begins review of backyard-hen ordinance after three coop fires, considers registration and setbacks
Summary
In a lengthy discussion councilors reviewed the town’s 2006 hen-house ordinance after staff reported three henhouse-related fires in 2026; options discussed included registration, permits, minimum lot sizes, setbacks, limits on number of hens, inspections and coordination with animal control and fire departments.
Councilors and staff revisited the town's existing hen-house ordinance (2006) following reports of three hen-house-related fires so far in 2026 and resident complaints about nuisance and potential rodent/rodent-attraction concerns.
Staff presented a menu of options: keep the status quo; rescind or prohibit hen houses; require registration or a special permit with periodic inspections by animal control and ordinance compliance staff; set a minimum lot size or greater setbacks; or require construction permits and coordination with the fire department. Councilors discussed the existing limit of 12 hens per lot, whether reducing to six would have material effect, the lack of any licensing or registry for henhouses (unlike dogs) and enforcement challenges when coops lack permits or electrical permits for heat lamps. Several councilors supported creating a registration system (possibly with no fee) to track henhouses and prioritize enforcement if complaints arise.
Councilors emphasized the need to review other towns' approaches (Bristol, Jamestown, Warren were cited) and to consult the clerks association for models. No ordinance change was adopted at this meeting; members directed staff to gather comparative models, look at permit/registration logistics, and return with specific recommended language that would address fire-safety risks, setbacks and enforcement.
