Definition of "kept"?

[Korzak]

Hi y'all, this is a question about keeping chickens in Connecticut, Cheshire Connecticut.

I was speaking with a neighbor today who said that she was told we are not allowed to free range chickens in this town, they have to be enclosed at all times. When I look at the regulations, included here, I don't see that strict interpretation.

Is anyone familiar with the legal definition of "kept"?

Thanks!

 

[thecatumbrella]

I would take that to mean they have to be enclosed and not able to wander beyond those limits.

 

[Mother of Chaos]

Hi y'all, this is a question about keeping chickens in Connecticut, Cheshire Connecticut.

I was speaking with a neighbor today who said that she was told we are not allowed to free range chickens in this town, they have to be enclosed at all times. When I look at the regulations, included here, I don't see that strict interpretation.

Is anyone familiar with the legal definition of "kept"?

Thanks!View attachment 4193575

My city is famously vague on chicken codes and guidelines. I literally know 0 chicken keepers who have permits.

But I interpret “kept in a building or enclosure” as referring to the coop or run, where they dwell. We have additional fencing outside the run where they can yard-range, plus 5+ foot tall perimeter fencing beyond that. None of the chicken-yard fencing is within 5’ of a lot line. One wall is street side (side yard) but is still 8-10’ from the actual street.

I work for a definition, as I think a CYA (cover your whatever) clerk would likely come up with a narrow interpretation.

Keep your “built” structures (coop and enclosed run) five feet from the lot line. If you add any area outside the run, make it obviously temporary fencing.

 

[Mother of Chaos]

You can also search this subforum, in case others have tread before you:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forums/local-chicken-laws-ordinances.37/

Mainly, keep your head down, look for quiet breeds, and gift your neighbors extravagantly with eggs once you have them!

 

[Korzak]

This is great, thank you all!

Since they don't define "enclosure", I wonder if that could mean a fenced yard? As long as the fence is not right on the property line.

 

[McChooky]

Our one horse town claims it has an ordinance against chickens and livestock but the map shows they can only go 15 ft on both sides of the road.They did it to generate income from B & O taxes because there's a motel a mile from here. Aside from local and government offices and schools we only have 2 fast food places,a drive inn ,one place to dine in,a tiny pizza hut,2 dollar stores and 2 grocery stores.
The devils always in the details

 

[McChooky]

This is great, thank you all!

Since they don't define "enclosure", I wonder if that could mean a fenced yard? As long as the fence is not right on the property line.

A fence is an enclosure.It didn't specify an enclosure with a roof.Cities with strict codes always specify the size of the coop too