Planning and zoning commission to review urban chicken use

Newton residents have crowed for the council to do something about its domestic livestock ordinance and allow more free-range policies when it comes to owning chickens within city limits, and now their efforts are paying off. The council this past week instructed the planning and zoning commission to look into the matter.

Efforts to change the city’s ordinances are largely spearheaded by an online group known as Backyard Birds for Newton. The Facebook page has amassed a following of supporters who agree they should be able to raise and keep chickens on their properties. But the current zoning codes restricts their use.

For instance, the domains of domestic livestock have to be at least 100 feet from a residence on any neighboring property. Up to four chickens are allowed per one acre of property. But not many properties within cit limits are less than one acre or meet the 100-foot threshold. Average lot widths are 60 to 66 feet wide.

During the June 2 city council meeting, a Newton resident explained that she currently lives in an apartment but is looking to buy a home within the next year. One of the biggest considerations for her and her family is to have a property that can have chickens. But she said she cannot afford a home with that much land.

Last month, Newton resident Erica Patterson spoke to council members about the group’s efforts to change the ordinance. She argued that changing the zoning codes lets families have more control over the food they consume, and it would instill self-sustainability. The group, she said, also created a petition.

So far, the petition has more than 600 verified signatures.

The group suggested a minimum of six hens be allowed on properties, but no roosters or drakes will be allowed. They also said a permit should be required and that setbacks be at 10-15 feet. Birds must remain on the owner’s property, and likely fenced in. Coops need to be clean, secure and predator-proof.

Feed must also be stored securely and waste must be managed to avoid odor or pests. Repeated violations would have a permit revoked. The group also proposed limited egg sharing and requiring people to obtain or receive educational materials on proper care for backyard chickens.