To cockadoodledoo or cockadoodledon't? West Valley City may allow chickens in residential areas

WEST VALLEY CITY — City leaders are considering allowing residents to raise chickens in residential areas.

The proposed ordinance amendment includes numerous regulations regarding property size, proximity to neighbors and specifications on coops. The proposal would allow residents to have up to eight hens but no roosters.

"People with chickens need to be sensitive and considerate of their neighbors," said Layne Morris, West Valley City community preservation director.

The City Council plans to discuss the proposal at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall, 3600 Constitution Blvd. An official public hearing isn't being scheduled on the issue. However, the public can speak during the public comment segment of Tuesday's council meeting at 6:30 p.m.

The council plans to vote on the chicken proposal Aug. 17.

Council members have differing views on the chicken issue, with some saying allowing chickens will tarnish the image of the city.

Councilman Russ Brooks said the city already has a chicken ordinance, which states chickens are allowed only in agricultural zones.

"Chickens are going to be all over the place," Brooks said.

Other council members say allowing chickens will be OK if regulated.

"If we could just figure out a way to do this properly, then I am in favor of it," Councilman Corey Rushton said.

Depending on size of residential lots, residents would be allowed to have up to eight hens. Some areas would be allowed five and others just three.

The ordinance would require chicken coops to be in the backyard and be at least 50 feet from any school or church; at least 30 feet from a neighbor's residence; at least 25 feet from the permit holder's home; and at least 3 feet from the property line.

Permit fees would be up to $27, depending on the number of chickens.

The hens would be allowed for non-commercial use only, meaning no selling of eggs. The slaughter of any animal on the property also would be forbidden.

Roosters wouldn't be allowed because they crow extremely loud and at early hours.

"It gets real old real quick for people living in a residential neighborhood," Morris said.

Residents who have been keeping chickens illegally would have up to 90 days to come into compliance once the amendment is passed.

The council's action is in response to requests from West Valley City residents who want to keep chickens in the residential zone.

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