City News

City council approves chickens in Billings

Posted: Aug 28, 2012 7:28 AM by Dustin Klemann - Q2 News
Updated: Aug 28, 2012 7:28 AM

BILLINGS - City council debated, then debated, then listened closely to residents' opinions, then debated some more. Monday night, they made the decision to allow chickens on residential land within the city limits.

Council members who voted against the proposal still expressed their appreciation and were impressed by those who lobbied hard for the approval.

Residents who are interested in owning their own hens must meet requirements and purchase an annual permit.

Those who violate requirements and do not obtain the permit will be subject to a $110 fine.

The ordinance states there can be no more than six hens, and that they must be located in the backyard. This is only availabe for single-family parcels, and the hens must stay in a ventilated enclosure from sunset to sunrise.

There also can be no public slaughtering of chickens.

Mayor Tom Hanel, who voted against the proposal, lightened the mood before the council approached the topic tonight as the topic was hotly contested over the past year.

City council plans to revisit the oridinance to see its progression both in how rules are followed and if it is financially viable for the city.