Citizens for The Right to Raise Chickens

Many cities across the country and our own state have changed local laws and ordinances to allow for the raising of a small flock of hens. It is time for Allegan, MI to join this movement. Other local cities such as Grand Rapids and Holland have made the decision to allow backyard flocks - limiting them to 6 hens (no roosters). The keeping of chickens in the city supports a local, sustainable food system by providing an affordable, nutritious source of protein through fresh eggs. The keeping of chickens also provides free, quality, nitrogen-rich fertilizer; chemical-free pest control; animal companionship and pleasure; weed control; and less noise, mess and expense than dogs and cats. The purpose of this petition is to provide support for standards for the keeping of domesticated chickens and to propose specified chicken regulations. It is intended to enable residents to keep a small number of female chickens on a non-commercial basis while limiting the potential adverse impacts on the surrounding neighborhood. We ask the city to allow backyard flocks with the appropriate permits and limitations as needed.