Petition to Allow Backyard Chickens in Residential Areas

To the Lee County Government,

We, the residents of Lee County, are asking the county to update zoning rules to allow backyard chickens in residential areas. Many other places in Florida and across the U.S. already allow it, and it's time we do too! Backyard chickens offer so many benefits to families and communities, and with the right guidelines, they can fit right into our neighborhoods without any problems.

Why Backyard Chickens Make Sense:

1. Fresh, Healthy Food – Having a few hens means fresh, organic eggs right from your backyard, helping families be more self-sufficient.
2. Less Food Waste – Chickens eat kitchen scraps, which helps cut down on waste and keeps it out of landfills.
3. Natural Pest Control – Chickens love to eat bugs, which means fewer pests and less need for chemical pesticides.
4. Great for Families & Kids – Raising chickens is a fun, hands-on way to teach kids (and adults!) about responsibility and where food comes from.
5. Boosts the Local Economy – Backyard chickens support local businesses like feed stores, co-ops, and small farms.

It’s Already Working in Other Cities!

Fort Myers and Bonita Springs have already embraced backyard chickens, and the results have been great! Families are enjoying fresh eggs, less waste, and healthier gardens. Plus, studies and local reports show that backyard chickens don’t lower property values or cause noise issues when managed properly. Other places have simple rules—like limiting the number of hens, not allowing roosters, and requiring clean coops—to keep things running smoothly.

What We’re Asking For:

We’re not asking for a free-for-all—just fair, common-sense rules that let people in Lee County (including Lehigh Acres and Cape Coral) keep a few hens if they want to. Reasonable guidelines could include:

• A limit on the number of hens per home.
• No roosters (to avoid noise complaints).
• Clean, well-kept coops.
• Basic health and safety standards.

By signing this petition, you’re showing support for a small but meaningful change that can help families, communities, and the environment. Let’s work together to bring backyard chickens to Lee County in a way that benefits everyone!

Let’s make our county a leader in sustainability and family-friendly policies!

Thank you for your support!

Sincerely, Residents of Lee County
Lee County Backyard Chicken Advocates