Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
thOrny MatterS
The only thing more frustrating than wanting to start a backyard chicken flock and being told you can't
would be to anticipate a quiet retirement neighborhood and waking up to crowing roosters from your
neighbor's unexpected flock. Double-checking your zoning restrictions before making a purchase can
keep everybody happy.
There is hope, of course. Many cities and municipalities allow gardens, chickens, rabbits, and other
small livestock. In fact, as of December 2011, 93 of the largest 100 cities (by population) in the
United States allowed keeping backyard chickens in some form or fashion. Often, cities will limit
backyard flocks to hens only, or enforce a smaller size such as six hens per family within city limits.
But even with limitations, the fact that so many of the nation's largest cities are friendly toward
those seeking additional self-sufficiency is an encouraging trend.
Many cities with currently unfriendly regulations are finding concerned citizens taking up the
cause. As regulations loosen and taxpayers make their wishes heard, you will see more and more
backyard farms and urban flocks being allowed. But until then, don't make the mistake of putting
yourself on the wrong side of the law because you failed to ask questions about zoning restrictions
and city ordinances prior to a major purchase.
