Losing our chickens- any advice?

[lpbc88]

We recently started having backyard chickens in Oconomowoc, WI. We spoke with the police department who informed us we could have 5 chickens in the yard as long as none were roosters. We purchased 5 chicks this spring and have enjoyed raising them. Recently, a neighbor reported us and now the city says we have to get rid of them. The neighbor was in no way bothered by them- they are quiet, don't smell, were kept in a coop with a small run, and aren't even near his property line. Any advice? Is there anyone else out there in Oconomowoc who has successfully been able to keep chickens? Would we be able to get a variance? Any help would be appreciated. Our children love them and we were so looking forward to getting fresh eggs- as was one of our other neighbors.

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

I am so sorry you are having issues with the neighbors. Many times they are afraid of what they don't understand and retaliate. I have never had to deal with neighbors before, but you might want to chat with others in your state thread here on BYC and maybe someone lives in your town here that can help? https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/245700/wisconsin-cheeseheads

You can also check out this forum here on BYC on laws and how to deal with them. Maybe someone in your county is having the same issue? https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/37/local-chicken-laws-ordinances-and-how-to-change-them

Good luck with this. A person should be able to keep a flock of chickens or anything else if they are following the rules. Definitely speak to the police again about this issue so they know your situation. I hope you can get this resolved soon!

 

[drumstick diva]

I hope you will be able to keep your chickens. Please post on your state thread (put name in search box and it will come up) so that others in your area may rally round you to get a variance that will allow your birds.

 

[Pork Pie]

Welcome to BYC and fingers crossed that your issue can be resolved.

Best wishes
Ct

 

[Sonoran Silkies]

You need to find out the specific requirements for your area. Obviously the police who told you that up to five are allowed, with no roosters was using some sort of reference to come up with those specifics, and obviously whoever from the city contacted you is looking at something else. Find out what the correct information for your zoning, and proceed from there.

 

[BruceAZ]

you didn't check the city's ordinances or hoa's?

usually the best department to call is the code compliance department of the city before start raising chickens to prevent problems like this

police department do not do city code violations.. unless it's illegal parking..


but it's too late now..

what you decide to do is up to you at this point

since you can remove the chickens as requested or you can take it to court

personally i would not waste money on the legal process.. especially if it's illegal in the first place

well good luck