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The city has workers whom must be paid. Some parts of their jobs are covered by tax $; however, requests to do things differently require extra work. Is it fair to ask other citizens to pay for what will benefit only you? This is the reason for building permit and plann assessment fees; for fees to file for a variance, etc.
If you want to start a grass roots movement to completely change the ordinance, that is a different thing entirely, but you would probably have to show widespread support for or interest in the idea.
I understand that the city has workers that must be paid and that naturally, my tax dollars will contribute to that; however I disagree w/your comment that other citizens will pay for what will benefit only myself. The absolute nature of this type of ordinance is right-stripping. One of the reasons why I purchased a house outside of a deed-restricted community was naturally the lack of deed restrictions. I purchased the house many years ago before I even considered keeping chickens. I understand the need for ordinances, and appreciate the ordinances to some respect. My point is, set up the ordinances to allow your residents freedom and opportunity. 50 chickens in a standard 80 x 100 residential lot? That could get out of hand for sure. There is a need for boundaries, I get that, but to say absolutely under no circumstances just seems slightly skewed to me.
On the sunny side up: from reviewing the ordinances, I did learn that I could run a bed and breakfast from my house if I want. Just can't supply my own eggs apparently.
As far as expense is concerned - it's not possible for me to cough up $250 in the off-chance that they'll say yes, and make an exception for me.
