If you know anyone who owns chickens, you know how fantastic pets and companions they can make. They have so many benefits; from fresh eggs, to natural pest control, to even helping reduce average household food waste. The following petition is to change the East Peoria, Illinois City Ordinance: 10-2-3.23 (a), in which states the following:
 
“Except as otherwise provided in this Code or by state law, it shall be unlawful for any person to own, use, keep or permit to be at large within the city any of the following animals: Bees, pigeons, horses, cattle, sheep, ponies, mules, goats, pigs, swine, hogs, ducks, geese, chickens, minks, skunks, foxes, rabbits, or any other livestock or poultry or any wild or vicious animals dangerous to mankind.”

The proposed change in ordinance will allow the citizens, in which whom reside within the city limits, to apply for a special permit to possess up to a maximum of five (5) chickens (hens only) on their properties. No roosters, slaughtering, free-ranging or commercial selling of meat or eggs w ill be permitted once ordinance is passed. All chicken coops and runs will be inspected by a city building inspector to ensure that the birds will be contained in a predator and escape proof enclosure.