Currently, Township Ordinances require a minimum of 3 acres to have any type of farm animals. The CURRENT ORDINANCE, that has been in place for many, many years reads as follows:
"The keeping of other livestock, poultry or fowl, other than pigs, provided that for such purposes the premises shall consist of at least three acres, shall provide three acres of land for every five animals and shall have all buildings used therefor situated not less than 100 feet from any road or property line on an adjoining lot."
The Township wants to allow the keeping of chickens for those on lots smaller than 3 acres. At the upcoming April 7, 2021 Board of Supervisors meeting, the Supervisors will consider an amendment to the Keeping of Animals ordinance to allow Township residents to have chicken(s). Lot size determines both if chickens are allowed and if so, how many. There are also requirements for coops and fencing, as chickens are not allowed to roam free. Most importantly, the Township will require a permit to keep chickens.
Below is a link to the complete ordinance, which includes specifics for the keeping of chickens. A flyer is also linked below that has the basic information.
UPDATE April 8, 2021: At the April 7, 2021 Board of Supervisors meeting, this ordinance was adopted by a 5-0 vote by the Supervisors. The Supervisors did note that this is the first "stage" and will be looking at ideas to amend the ordinance to allow more chickens based on lot size. Keep an eye on the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisor's Agendas for when this topic is set to be discussed by both of these boards.
Keeping of Animals Ordinance - ORIGINAL
REVISED: Proposed revisions will be discussed at the May 5, 2021 Board of Supervisors Meeting.