Residents’ input helps fine-tune proposed chicken law

Fredonia Town Board members will incorporate suggestions from residents into a proposed ordinance regulating the raising of chickens in back yards.

The proposed changes brought up at a public hearing last week include:

Roosters would be allowed in less densely populated areas if they are part of a 4-H project and a letter is submitted from a 4-H poultry leader.

The number of chickens allowed will be increased from six to 10.

Slaughtering chickens is allowed for personal use but the meat cannot be sold or traded.

A one-time permit fee of $5 that does not have to be renewed as long as the owner is in compliance. Originally the ordinance called for an annual fee of $15.

The need for an ordinance came to light after a Waubeka resident complained that a neighbor was keeping chickens in his yard and creating a nuisance.

When officials investigated the matter, they discovered the town had no regulations over the practice.

Under the proposed ordinance, residents who currently have chickens will not be grandfathered in and will have to meet the ordinance’s restrictions and pay the fee to obtain a permit.

Chickens cannot be kept in mobile home parks, vacant lots or any property zoned as multifamily.