Chickens, specifically hens, provide numerous benefits to their keepers and the environment. They produce fresh eggs, help control pests by eating insects and weeds, and their waste can be used as a rich fertilizer for gardens. Despite these benefits, backyard chicken keeping is currently not allowed in Peoria, IL. This petition seeks to change that.

Cities across the United States have recognized these benefits and have amended their laws to allow backyard chicken keeping. For instance, Chicago allows residents to keep chickens without any limit on the number of birds (Chicago Tribune). Similarly, New York City allows hen-keeping without a permit (New York Times).

By legalizing backyard chicken keeping in Peoria we can promote local food production and sustainability while providing educational opportunities for children about where food comes from.

We urge the city council of Peoria to reconsider its stance on this issue and allow residents to raise hens in their backyards under reasonable regulations that ensure animal welfare and address any potential nuisance concerns.

Please sign this petition if you support allowing chickens in Peoria!