Since going into effect at the start of the year, the City of Emporia’s new residential chicken ordinance seems to be favorable to residents.
According to City Manager Trey Cocking, the city allowed the residential ownership of chickens dating back to 1998 until a moratorium was placed on the matter in 2013. The Emporia City Commission took up the conversation and eventually approved a new policy this past fall.
Cocking says the ordinance comes with several requirements all of which help chicken owners be considerate to their neighbors.
Since the ordinance went into effect back on Jan. 1, Cocking says the only major complaint has been the annual $50 permitting fee. The ordinance allows residents to own up to four hens on their property with no roosters allowed.
Additionally, Cocking says the slaughter of chickens within the city limits is strictly prohibited.
In order to gain a permit, residents need to speak with City Clerk Kari Sull and have an inspection before the permit will be issued. Violations of the ordinance can result in citations and municipal court appearances and fines.
For more information on the ordinance or to gain a permit contact the city offices by calling 620-343-4244.
