Dear Members of the South Middleton Township Board,

I am writing to respectfully request a review and revision of Supplemental Regulation 1641: Keeping and Housing of Livestock, Foul, & Other Animals, as cited in a recent zoning ordinance violation notice.

While I understand the intent behind the regulation, the current language is outdated, confusing, and unnecessarily restrictive with regard to small fowl such as backyard chickens and ducks.

Concerns with Current Ordinance Language –

Section (1) of Regulation 1641 specifically addresses

large animals (over 350 pounds), with clear acreage requirements. - Section (2), however, broadly

prohibits “livestock and foul” in all but Agricultural and Woodland Conservation districts.

 

This broad grouping fails to distinguish between large livestock (cows, horses, pigs) and small fowl

(chickens, ducks), creating uncertainty for residents. Chickens are not “large animals,” and in many

municipalities they are recognized as suitable household pets or permitted small livestock.

 

Legal and Regional Precedent –

·       The Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania has recognized that chickens may be kept as pets .

 

·       Nearby boroughs—including Mt. Holly

Springs and Carlisle—permit backyard chickens under  responsible ordinances.

·       The Cumberland County Planning Department has published a Non-Commercial Keeping of

Livestock/Beekeeping Model Ordinance that sets practical guidelines for the keeping of chickens,

addressing sanitation, setbacks, and reasonable flock sizes.

 

Benefits to the Community Allowing residents to keep backyard chickens on residential parcels would:

·       Support sustainability and self-sufficient living.

·       Provide fresh, local food sources.

·       Offer educational opportunities for families and children.

·       Encourage responsible animal husbandry in line with modern practices.

Suggested Action 

I respectfully request that the Township draft and adopt a Backyard Chicken Ordinance that provides clear, up-to-date guidance. Such an ordinance could:

·       Allow for a limited number of chickens in residential zones.

·       Establish basic regulations regarding coop placement (e.g., 25–50 ft. setbacks), sanitation, and humane treatment.

·       Reference provisions from the Cumberland County model ordinance and neighboring boroughs for consistency.

Community Support

 Several township residents, including myself, have operated under the good-faith assumption that backyard chickens were permitted due to the ordinance’s vague wording. Many of my neighbors would welcome the opportunity to responsibly keep chickens under a clear and specific ordinance. I would be glad to assist in gathering input or participating in public discussion as this matter is considered.

 

Thank you for your time and consideration! Updating Regulation 1641 to reflect responsible and modern standards will bring South Middleton Township in line with neighboring communities while protecting the character and quality of life we all value.