Proposal for Amending Zoning Ordinances to Permit Backyard Chickens in Peoria, IL 

Introduction 

The purpose of this proposal is to advocate for an amendment to the current zoning ordinances in Peoria, IL, to permit the keeping of a limited number of female chickens (hens) on residential lots. This initiative aims to align Peoria with progressive urban agricultural practices, as evidenced by similar successful implementations in hundreds of communities across the country.

Here in our own backyard we have seen East Peoria, Bloomington, Champaign, Elgin, Naperville, Springfield and Chicago all allow backyard chickens. And it’s estimated that there are 12M backyard flocks in the US with about 8-10% of the population having backyard flocks. We would like to model our text amendment after Champaign, IL.

Background and Rationale 

Urban agriculture, including the keeping of backyard chickens, offers numerous benefits. These include promoting local food security, providing educational opportunities for families, reducing food miles, and enhancing sustainability. In February of this year, East Peoria approved the keeping of backyard chickens under specific conditions, reflecting a growing trend in urban planning that supports sustainable living practices within city limits.

III. Proposal Details 

This proposal suggests that the City of Peoria adopt a similar ordinance to Champaign, IL with the following specifications:

• Number of Chickens: No more than five (5) hens per residential lot.

• Roosters: Prohibited to minimize noise concerns.

• Coop Specifications: Coops must be kept clean, odor-free, and located at least 10 feet from any residential structures on adjacent properties.

•   Permit Requirement: Residents must obtain a permit before keeping chickens, including a nominal fee to cover administrative costs.

IV. Case Study: Champaign, IL 

Since the implementation of the backyard chicken ordinance in Champaign, IL in 2013, the community has experienced positive feedback including increased public interest in urban farming. This ordinance has strong community support, evidenced by community surveys and public feedback sessions.

V. Community Engagement and Support 

Preliminary discussions and surveys within the Peoria community indicate strong support for this initiative. A petition supporting this amendment has already garnered 500+ signatures within the first 48 hours.

VI. Conclusion and Request for Action 

In light of the successful adoption and implementation of similar ordinances in neighboring cities, and based on the positive feedback from Peoria residents, it is respectfully requested that the Peoria Zoning Board consider this proposal to amend the current zoning ordinances to permit the keeping of backyard chickens under the conditions outlined above.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Permitting Backyard Chickens in Peoria, IL

1. Why are we considering allowing backyard chickens in Peoria?

Allowing backyard chickens aligns with sustainable urban agriculture trends seen nationwide. It enhances local food security, reduces our carbon footprint, provides educational opportunities, and strengthens community ties. Hundreds of cities across the U.S. have successfully integrated such practices.

2. How many chickens can be kept, and why only hens?

The proposal limits the number of chickens to five hens per residential lot. Hens are allowed because they are quieter and less disruptive than roosters, which are prohibited to avoid noise issues.

3. What are the expected benefits of allowing backyard chickens?

Benefits include local production of fresh eggs, educational experiences for residents (especially children), reduced environmental impact from transporting food, and increased food resilience within the community.

4. What about noise concerns?

Hens typically make noise at a level between 60-70 decibels, quieter than a dog’s bark. Roosters are not included in this proposal due to their louder crowing.

5. Are there health risks associated with raising chickens?

When managed properly, the health risks are minimal. Owners will be required to keep coops clean and maintain sanitary conditions to prevent any health issues.

6. How will coop hygiene be maintained?

Coop standards will be set in the ordinance, requiring that all structures be kept clean, odor-free, and in good repair. Coops must also provide adequate space and ventilation to ensure the health of the chickens and the comfort of neighbors.

7.Can chickens attract pests or predators?

While chickens can attract common pests like flies and rodents, keeping the coop clean and securing feed in rodent-proof containers minimizes this risk. Predators can be deterred by secure housing and proper coop construction.
 
8. How will the city handle violations of the chicken ordinance?

The city will implement a permit system with regular inspections to ensure compliance. Fines or other penalties may be imposed for violations to ensure all chicken keepers adhere to the established standards.

9. How will this affect property values?

Studies have shown that similar urban agriculture initiatives have little to no negative impact on property values. Properly managed backyard chickens can be a neutral or even positive factor for property values, especially among environmentally-conscious buyers.

10. What are the permit requirements?

Residents will need to apply for a permit, which involves a nominal fee and a property inspection to ensure compliance with coop and lot size requirements. This helps maintain community standards and ensures responsible chicken keeping.

11. What measures are in place to protect the welfare of the chickens?

The ordinance will include requirements for proper food, water, shelter, and care to ensure the chickens are well-treated. Animal welfare will be a key component of the permitting process.

12. How can residents express their support or concerns about this proposal?

Residents are encouraged to attend public meetings about the proposal, send feedback to city council members, or participate in community surveys. All feedback is valuable and will be considered in the decision-making process.

We hope this FAQ addresses the main concerns and questions regarding the proposed amendment to allow backyard chickens in Peoria. For additional information, questions, or feedback, please contact Kimberly Giraldo, kimgiraldo80@gmail.com

This initiative represents a step towards a more sustainable and community-oriented Peoria, and your input is essential.