City Council Approves Ordinance Allowing Up to 8 Chickens on Single-Family Lots in Chattanooga

In The Know with Gino… 

As an update for the Chattamatters NOW Segment from last week… The City Council voted 7-2 Tuesday night to pass a new Urban Chicken Ordinance permitting residents to keep up to eight laying hens on single-family properties. Opposing council members Marvene Noel and Jenni Berz voiced concerns, with Noel proposing an amendment to exclude her District 8, which was not seconded.

Supporters highlighted community enthusiasm and local examples, such as residents in East Lake already integrating chickens into their neighborhoods. Councilwoman Raquetta Dotley noted widespread support and shared her own experience with chickens wandering into her yard, emphasizing that the ordinance is already making an impact with neighbors installing coops and fencing.

Most council members agreed that chickens are here to stay, citing benefits of sustainable living and community support. The ordinance limits the number of hens to 20 per acre in agricultural zones and caps the total at 10 per residential complex on common property. Roosters are banned due to noise concerns, and the ordinance prohibits selling eggs, incubation, and chicken fighting.

The measure aims to balance residents’ desire to keep chickens with neighborhood safety and sanitation, addressing potential issues like noise, odors, pests, and unsanitary conditions. The ordinance marks a significant step toward allowing urban chicken-keeping in the city, with a focus on non-commercial, small-scale farming.

SOURCE: Chattanoogan