Trying to Legalize Chickens in Oak Ridge, TN

[jywel417]

I know there is a lot of information on here about getting chickens legalized but I was hoping that maybe you all could point me in a direction to get started. About a year ago some people tried to get chickens (hens) legalized in the city of Oak Ridge, TN but it failed. Since then I have spoken with several people who would like to have chickens but did not know to do anything to help the law get passed. After having to move back into the city I really miss raising hens and while I could do it illegally it probably wouldn't look good if I end up getting a job working for the city and I can't move out of the city for several years yet.

So, basically I am asking how to get them legalized. Is there a step by step checklist of things I can do to get everything organized so that if I can get it to come to a vote again perhaps the city can get a different outcome? Any and all help is appreciated!

Thank you very much!

 

[georgialee]

I can't answer your questions, but I have a feeling it will be much easier now that Knoxville is allowing hens. Good luck!

 

[jywel417]

Thanks georgialee and I sure hope so!! I am not above illegal chickens (there was a rather large loophole in the current law last I checked) but would be much nicer to legalize

 

[jywel417]

Okay. maybe any suggestions on how to get started at least? I have never done anything like this and any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[JEB NC 10]

I'd take the simpliest approach possible. I've been involved in politics professionally for the past 10 yrs. Everything from running city council campaigns up to being a U.S. Senate staffer. I'd start with you (or possible a small group) taking a city council member out to an informal lunch and feel them out and try to find out exactly where they come down on this issue. Hopefully, you can find atleast one council member that is understanding of the whole backyard flock issue. That way someone from the "inside" can help shepard any ordinance change through the system. That may be an easier approach than simply approaching the Council as a whole during a public presentation during a regularly scheduled Council meeting. Also, when/if your able to meet one-on-one with an individual council member be prepared to share with them info. from surrounding municipalities compariable to what you're wanting to see in Oak Ridge. Best of luck. If I can help you out in any way let me know.

 

[spaceapple]

Hi, I'm right over here in Knoxville! Our chicken ordinance finally got passed last year, and applications for permits were released last month. I'm not sure how they went about doing it, but I bet the Knoxville Urban Hen Coalition could give you some good advice. A google search will bring their website right up. I got my application the day they were released, and the only thing I'm lacking is my landlord's permission (which has proved to be the most difficult part!). Oak Ridge is so near by, maybe Knoxville's newly passed ordinance will give them a push in the right direction. Good luck!

 

[jywel417]

Thanks everyone !!!

I really want to legalize, I work at a vet and we have a LOT of clients who live in the city who would love to own a few hens! I also am hoping that with the newly passed law in Knoxville that Oak Ridge can follow suit!

 

[bourgets]

I know this is an old thread but I wanted to comment on it. We too are in Oak Ridge and would almost be surprised if they Ever passed this because of how strict Oak Ridge is on Everything! We have tried to move out of the city just because they of all the rules here on My property that I am paying taxes on. Seems like it is difficult to get them to pass anything that makes sense. And if it does get passed I am sure they will charge far more money for the permits then any other city around. I do hope they consider passing it in the future again as we would LOVE to have some chickens and feel it is out right since we pay for our property! Not to mention a few chickens really wouldn't hurt anyone and Honestly would not be any louder then all the dogs in the neighborhoods. Really hoping Oak Ridge gets with the program and gets on board for once!!

 

[ice83]

"Loop hole" in the current law.... I was curious about this, I do have chickens but it was because I was told two different things when i moved here and had these chickens already. I was told we could have chickens but not roosters, then that we could have chickens but only so many. I hear there is something there in the books now that allows them to a certain extent. Please inform me, and I will gladly fight for chicken allowances in the city of Oak Ridge.