Discuss Potential Ordinance to Clarify Rooster Restrictions

The purpose of this case is two-fold.

1. Recommend a reformatting of Chapter 10 for consistent approach
2. Seek Policy Direction on Rooster Regulations

Reformatting

Historically, the City's Animal Code focused on a delineation between lots smaller than 3 acres and lots that are larger than 3 acres. The code is structured as such that many animals commonly considered as non-domestic (chickens, pigs, cows, horses, etc.) required at least 3 acres. Since the time the Code was originally drafted, the City has grown considerably. Additionally, the City has routinely tweaked the Animal Code on several occasions, providing a bit of a patchwork and a Code that is difficult to interpret. 

The simple solution is to redraft the ordinance so that the process and definitions are consistent regardless of whether the property less smaller than 3 acres or larger than 3 acres. Staff will elaborate more at the Work Session.

Policy Question - is 3 acres still the correct break-point for 'farm-type' animals, or should that delineation be changed to something different (E.g., 1 acre or 2 acre minimum). Regardless, an owner on less than 3 acres still has the option to request approval from the City Council. 

Roosters

Throughout 2020, the City received an increase in the number of complaints of roosters, especially on properties 1 to 2 acres in size. Property Owners that own Roosters and were subjects of the complaints have been asking the City to consider amending regulations to allow Roosters on properties at least 1 acre in size, understanding that Roosters are probably not appropriate on smaller lots due to the nuisance created by noise. 

Policy Question - does the City Council want to consider allowing Roosters on properties that are at least 1 acre in size?

• Alternatives
  • Not allowed on any lot regardless of size
  • Require a property that is at least 2 acres
  • Require a property that is at least 3 acres

City Staff is requesting an ordinance to clarify rooster restrictions in the City. Since 2010, there have been approximately 30 code enforcement cases for violations of Chapter 10 - Animals, in regards to prohibited animals on parcels three (3) acres or less. Many of these violations are for properties that have roosters. 

Section 10.1 of City Code currently states:
"a. Animals on less than three acres. None of the following animals shall be maintained on any parcel of land in the city that is not at least 3.0 acres (130,680 square feet) in size: llamas, cows, mules, donkeys, burros, goats, pigs, sheep, lambs, turkey, geese and ducks. EXCEPTION: Chickens (hens only, no roosters or crowing hens) may be maintained on parcels less than three acres."

Many other cities in the Metro also prohibit roosters. The draft ordinance and research of other cities' requirements are attached to the case.

None. Part of staff regular duties.

Based on discussion.

Based on discussion.