Backyard Chickens Passed in Bow, NH !!!

[Chickenhappynh]

Horray- after 2 years of research and a full year working with the zoning committee we have chickens in Bow.
I met unlikely opposition from the local farmers. They did not like that the town was regulating who can and cannot have roosters. I do think some of them did not even know that there was a acre limitation and minimum feet from property lines already, and that the amendment would only loosen the ordinance not tighten it.

What I learned:

Do the leg work for the committee and present it in clear form. They are not going to do the work for you. Once they saw I was serious and willing to do the research they were willing to help.

Rally up support early and make friends in your town. You are likely to need them if opponents show up.

Look at the amendments with as many angles as possible-- I did not think the local farmers would care. They were upset with another amendment that would further regulate manure (presented during the chicken discussions). This upset them and although they could vote down the manure issue alone they also attacked the chicken amendment --almost costing the passage.

Thank everyone!

I will put my proposal on this blog as soon as I have time, to help others

 

[True Grit]

Congratulations to you! Good for you for being willing to work on it to the benefit of all would be bychicken-keepers.

 

[k3llyVA]

Great job!

Posting your proposal (and a repeat of your excellent suggestions!) is a great idea and sure to help others. I've been keeping an eye on this Laws & Ordinances forum, and there are frequently folks looking for help and suggestions on how to change the laws in their city or county.

 

[ChicksNherps]

wow I never knew that =) I got my chickens in march, I didn't know you weren't supposed to have them before

Now i'm trying to find if you can have roosters, because I have one.