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Commission seeks clearer definition of 'animal unit' in LUDMO; roosters and pigs discussed
Summary
Richmond commissioners asked staff to clarify the 'animal unit' definition and related rules. Staff noted proposed language would not remove current rights for residents (cats/dogs) and that pigs remain subject to conditional use permits; commissioners also discussed whether to regulate roosters.
The Planning & Zoning Commission on July 7 set the definition of "animal unit" on its revision list for Title 12‑000, Chapter 12‑300 of the LUDMO code and discussed how animal combinations and specific species should be regulated.
City Recorder Justin Lewis emphasized staff's intent: any code rewrite is not intended to remove existing rights for residents who currently keep animals. He clarified that proposed changes would not apply to cats or dogs and that pigs would continue to be handled through the conditional use permit process. Commissioners and staff discussed roosters specifically as a common topic addressed by municipalities; Council Liaison Bryce Wood observed that zoos will accept roosters, an offhand remark intended to point to options for animal disposition.
Resident Josie DeMann told the Commission that most inquiries to the City relate to allowable animal unit combinations and kennel license questions and thanked commissioners for working toward clearer regulations. The Commission asked staff to prepare a clearer draft to bring back at the next meeting.
