Southgate could soon allow the ownership of chickens, chicks, and hens in the city.
The topic came about when resident Sonny Silverton asked city council at a May 18 meeting to amend the animal ordinance to allow people in the city to raise chickens.
The ordinance states that up to six chickens, hens, or chicks will be permitted in a secure covered outdoor enclosure in the backyard of the resident’s home. The pen must be 25 feet from the nearest neighboring property line.
Roosters, turkeys, and pheasants will not be permitted.
Any resident raising the chickens will have to agree to a licensing process allowing the city, police department or animal control to conduct inspections to determine whether the animals are kept in a humane and clean condition.
Residents interested in owning chickens will have to apply for a license for $25, and the license can be revoked if the chickens cause smells or noise that interfere with neighbors.
Owners of the chickens, chicks, or hens who don’t comply with the ordinance will be fined. A first offense is between $25 and $100, and a second offense is between $50 and $200. The city may also direct animal control to remove the animals from the property.
Mayor Jim Hamberg asked the council if they wanted to move forward on this request. The council then voted to have the city attorney amend the animal ordinance to allow chickens.
A first reading for the ordinance was held on July 20.
A final vote on the ordinance amendment will occur at the next city council meeting on Aug. 3.
