Urban chickens were a hot topic at Thursday’s Ludlow City Council caucus meeting, where a resident had previously requested a discussion on the issue.
Police Chief Scott Smith read a plethora of points to ponder before such a legalization should come home to roost. First and foremost, there can’t be loose chickens running amok on the streets of Ludlow.
“What would we do with stray chickens?” one council member asked. Another member said the Civic Garden Center would likely take them.
The chickens would have to be non-crowing fowl and no more than three chickens per property. No breeding or slaughtering of the animals would be permitted. Urban chicken owners would incur an annual licensing fee of $25. In addition, a yearly inspection would occur to ensure the proper care and treatment of the animals.
A violation of keeping birds without a permit could reap a cost of up to $100 per day until a permit is obtained by the chicken keeper. A seven-day grace period for a resolution on any violation would be granted. But if issues are not resolved, then permits would be taken away.
Chickens once were part of Ludlow’s legal urban vibe in the 1990s but became a nuisance, Mayor Chris Wright said. Proper containment of the animals, stench, attracting predators, such as coyotes or other rodents, were and are concerns.
Re-legalizing means an Urban Backyard Chicken Training Class could be required. This would ensure everyone is on the same page with city expectations of proper containment and care, cleanliness, and consideration of neighbors.
Smith said the chicken “housing structure [would need to be] no closer than 25 feet from the edge of a neighboring property and any lights, heaters, etc. must be manufactured for outdoor animal use.”
Lingering questions exist for council and the chief of police. Proper waste control is one. Also, what procedures would have to be put in place for if/when chickens need to be removed from a violating property.
While no resolution is on the table at this point, council will continue to peck at the matter as residents show interest in it.
The next Ludlow City Council caucus meeting is scheduled for March 24.