City Council set to discuss allowing chickens in residential neighborhoods
By Andrea Papagianis
Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach, San Juan Capistrano, Long Beach, Oceanside and San Diego allow them. But, depending on the city, there are limitations to the amount and may some municipalities require a permit.
Now, Dana Point is taking up the question: Are chickens welcome in residential neighborhoods?
Currently the answer is “no.” Chapter 9 of the city’s municipal code labels the keeping of livestock, poultry and bees in residential districts as “restricted.”
But after Nancy Weagley’s chickens were evicted from her Capistrano Beach home, following the council’s April 15 meeting that pitted neighbor against neighbor in the fowl discussion, signs reading “We Support Hens in Dana Point,” began popping up.
Weagley has since spoken at City Council meetings, most recently on June 17, where she provided packets to council members on the issue. Issues now going before the council for consideration could include, how many chickens could be allowed, if any, in a homeowner’s yard and how far chickens must be from a neighbor’s property line. The debate could also include allowing, or not allowing, roosters.
According to a city staff report, municipal code changes would require alterations to the city’s zoning regulations. If these zoning changes fall in the Coastal Zone, they may require California Coastal Commission approval.
Staff is asking for council direction in the matter.
The council will meet Tuesday, July 1 at City Hall, 33282 Golden Lantern. Meeting begins at 6 p.m.
View the agenda item below:
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