Are you thinking about raising chickens in Hamilton County, Ohio? Before you begin, it’s important to understand the local laws and regulations around suburban chicken keeping. In this article, we’ll explore the key rules and requirements set by the county for keeping chickens on residential properties.
Purpose of Suburban Chicken Keeping
The purpose of keeping suburban chickens in Hamilton County is solely for the farming of their eggs for private consumption. This means that you cannot sell any products produced by your chickens, as it is not allowed on properties zoned for residential use. It’s worth noting that these regulations do not limit poultry husbandry
Maximum Number of Fowl
If you’re interested in keeping chickens in Hamilton County, you’ll need to adhere to the maximum number of chickens allowed per household. The limit is set at ten (10) chickens per household, and roosters are not allowed. It’s important to note that exceeding the limit is considered a violation of the regulations.
Suburban Chicken Enclosure
Your chicken enclosure must adhere to specific requirements set by Hamilton County. For starters, any accessory building or enclosure (including fences) must be located at least 20 feet from all property lines. The enclosure must also be located in the rear yard and provide at least 10 square feet of area per chicken, with a maximum size of 100 square feet for the total enclosure area. The enclosure cannot exceed 6 feet in height at the highest point.
Maintenance Requirements
To keep your chickens in a safe and healthy environment, you must keep their enclosures neat, clean, and sanitary at all times. This means ensuring that there are no offensive odors or excessive noise that could be considered a nuisance to your neighbors. Failing to maintain a clean environment for your chickens can lead to violations of the regulations.
Confinement Rules
Chickens must be confined to their designated fenced enclosure and cannot be let out to roam around freely. Additionally, you must close your chicken coop between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. to ensure that your chickens remain safe and secure.
Slaughter Rules
It is prohibited to slaughter chickens on properties zoned for residential use in Hamilton County. However, if a chicken dies from natural causes or is slaughtered off-site, it can be cleaned and dressed for consumption or disposal on your property.
Conclusion
Keeping suburban chickens in Hamilton County can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to understand and adhere to the regulations set forth by the county. Remember that the purpose of suburban chicken keeping is solely for personal egg consumption, and you cannot sell any products produced by your chickens. By following the maximum number of chickens allowed, enclosure requirements, and maintenance and confinement rules, you can enjoy a safe and healthy environment for your feathered friends.
