What to do when there are no rules?

[ScottM]

Our city Bylaws have sections regarding rural properties, but for my zone there is absolutely nothing written. I'll likely just go about building my small coop for three rather than trying to change the world first. Other than getting an ok from neighbors, any advice?

Scott

 

[NanaLantana]

My dad, who was the Pastor of a middle-sized Church, used to tell me that it's easier to ask forgiveness than to ask permission! But then, he was dealing with a Church council, not a city council.

I don't think I really have any rules, either, but I have 8 hens. Their coop is hidden in a bushy area, very near my house. My dogs patrol inside the yard, you can't see the chickens from the road, the neighbors don't hear them, so I feel safe. But you never know - maybe one day somebody will tell me to get rid of them - that would be a sad day - I say, go for it, get the enjoyment out of them while you can! Just be prudent - --

 

[Zigmont]

Most towns have ordinances regarding livestock and consider chickens as such. Good luck and enjoy!

 

[Chemguy]

If your town does not have ordinances, then it is the county or state law that you should follow. That is the case for me, and it's a bit of a weird situation. Since there are no local laws, state law tells me that it is illegal to have chickens on a lot my size (less than 5 acres). However, enforcement of state law resides with the county sherriff. Local law enforcement has plenty of other things to do, so they do not have a chicken squad that cruises the area seeking to enforce the letter of the law. I was told that the only time the law would be enforced is if the sherriff were called to my property on a nusince complaint related to the chickens (noise, smell, etc). I suppose they could enforce it if they were called toi my property on some other issue, but that is rather unlikely.

ETA: Ridgerunner (post below) is correct. You should call the animal enforcement officer. That's what I did, and they directed me to my local zoning official. Very helpful fellow, gave me the information I asked for. Like Ridgerunner, I didn't want to go all in only to find that I couldn't have chickens.

 

[Ridgerunner]

What I'd suggest is to find out who is the animal enforcement officer in your area and talk to them. That person might be helpful or they might be a pain, but at least you would know what you are dealing with. Make a non-emergency call to your local law enforcement agency to find out who to talk to.

If you are willing to spend the money and take a chance on having to get rid of them or maybe pay a fine, that is your business. Personally, like to know what I am dealing with before I spend money like that.

 

[kimisfishing]

I did not think of the rules when I got chickens...

but found out I am not supposed to have them. There are others who have them in my area so was told it is ok as long as there are no complaints....I own my block and only woods around me....I have noticed that the local police do not come to dinner anymore so they dont see me breaking the law

so guess they will not be getting eggs or deer any longer

but I have traded chicks with the others here and we have talked about changing the laws if ayone complains. This is the best we can do here.
Enjoy your chicks, I know I do....