By Piqua News Now Staff
PIQUA, OH – The Piqua City Commission voted Tuesday evening, March 18, to approve an ordinance allowing residents to keep backyard chickens within city limits. The decision, which followed weeks of discussion and public input, marks a significant shift in the city’s urban agriculture policy.
The newly approved ordinance permits homeowners to keep up to four hens, though roosters will remain prohibited to prevent noise disturbances. Additionally, the ordinance bans the slaughtering of chickens on residential properties. To maintain community aesthetics and minimize nuisances, specific regulations regarding coop size, placement, and maintenance have been put in place.
Regulations and Requirements Residents interested in keeping chickens must obtain a zoning permit, which includes a $10 application fee. As part of the permit process, applicants must submit a site plan demonstrating that the coop will be located at least 30 feet away from neighboring properties. Proper fencing and landscaped screening are also required to ensure minimal impact on adjacent properties.
To address concerns regarding cleanliness and public health, the ordinance mandates regular maintenance of coops and proper disposal of bedding and waste. Manure must be bagged and disposed of in sealed plastic containers to control odor and prevent potential health hazards.
Public Response and Debate The ordinance was met with mixed reactions from Piqua residents. Supporters argue that backyard chickens promote sustainability and allow families to produce their own fresh eggs. Many residents also see it as an opportunity to teach children about responsibility and food production.
However, some citizens raised concerns about potential health risks, odors, and the enforcement of the new regulations. City officials assured residents that compliance will be monitored through routine inspections and that complaints will be handled through the city’s code enforcement department.
Looking Ahead With the ordinance now in effect, Piqua joins a growing number of cities embracing backyard poultry as part of the urban homesteading movement. While the city will oversee the permit process and enforcement, residents in neighborhoods with homeowners’ associations (HOAs) should note that their local covenants may still prohibit backyard chickens, regardless of the new city law.
