Are you interested in keeping a few chickens in your backyard in Bristol? Or are you upset about the number of chickens in your neighbor’s yard?
You might want to attend Monday’s meeting of the Bristol Planning Commission. Discussion of the agriculture uses allowed on residential property in the city is on the agenda for the meeting because the staff with the city’s Community Development and Planning Department has received a number of comments and inquiries about this section of the city’s zoning ordinance, according to information included with the meeting’s agenda.
Agriculture uses in residential areas have been a hot topic across the state in recent years, including this year in Washington County, where officials have been wrangling with the issue since residents of an upscale subdivision asked if they could have chickens on their property.
Currently, in residential areas, the city’s zoning ordinance allows no more than six hens and no roosters. Chickens must be kept in an enclosed shelter and fenced pen, and it must be at least 100 feet from any adjoining property line.
In addition to chickens, the agenda’s documents mention beekeeping.
For honey bees, a minimum lot size of 10,000 square feet is required for up to two hives, there is a minimum lot size of 12,000 square feet for up to three hives and a minimum lot size of 15,000 square feet for up to a maximum of four hives. The hives must be in the backyard.
An annual permit and fee are required for chickens and honeybees.
The meeting will be held at noon Monday in the city council chambers of City Hall, 300 Lee St. You can view the agenda here.
