Mike the Chicken Vet's blog post, "Why don't cities want backyard chickens"

[SunnyAlberta]

http://mikethechickenvet.wordpress.com/2012/03/03/why-dont-cities-want-backyard-chickens/

My point-form summary of his article:

- the risk of animal suffering and human disease is significant if not done well
- biggest risk is people's ignorance

• feeding
• coop temperature
• disposal of 2lbs of manure per chicken per week
• appropriate breeds for climate
• keeping chickens in winter
• eggs with manure on them
• cracked eggs
• sick chickens
• vets for chickens
• zoonotic diseases (transferred from chickens to humans)

- should backyard coops be licensed and how?
- how are eggs that are shared with neighbours traced?

The cost and logistics of setting up a program may be insurmountable for a municipality, especially given the number of people who'd want to be licensed to offset the cost.

 

[TXchickmum]

-enjoyed the article and thoroughly agree with/understand a number of the concerns. Our city permits the keeping of backyard flocks. Many people with whom I'm acquainted that do so, do so very responsibly. They feed, shelter, and care for their animals well, and take great care to ensure sanitation. The issues arise when someone jumps into 'chicken ownership' with little to no research, or simply doesn't do the necessary steps/work required to maintain a healthy flock and sanitary lawn. Flies and rodents do carry the potential risk of disease, not to mention the other bacteria that can flourish. It does present a conundrum. As with everything else, however, there are those choosing to act responsibly, and those that are not. (Building permits are required per many municipalities regarding any type of structures that are erected on a property. Also, to aid in the prevention of unkept/unsanitary properties, there are "noxious odor" ordinances in many areas. This, albeit, is somewhat subjective.) -bottom line: if one chooses to entertain chicken ownership, research and fully understand that which is about to be endeavored. -and, if one desires to operate as he/she sees fit on one's own personal property without regard for reasonable ordinances and order, then select a suitable homestead outside of an incorporated city limit - the country.