Yes, you can have chickens in Dearborn, Michigan, provided you obtain a permit from the city health officer.
Understanding Dearborn's Ordinance on Fowl
Dearborn's city ordinance explicitly allows residents to keep various types of animals, including fowl, on their property. This falls under Part II, Section 4-1 of the city's ordinance books. The key requirement for keeping such animals, including chickens, is that homeowners must first secure a permit from the city health officer. This regulation ensures that all domestic pets, including fowl, are kept in a harmless manner and do not pose a nuisance or health risk to the community.
Key Requirements for Keeping Chickens in Dearborn
To legally keep chickens in Dearborn, residents must adhere to the following:
- Permit Acquisition: The most crucial step is obtaining a permit. This permit must be secured from the city health officer before bringing any fowl onto your property.
- Compliance with Ordinance: Adherence to all regulations outlined in Part II, Section 4-1 of the city's ordinance books is mandatory. While the ordinance generally permits "fowl," specific rules regarding coop size, setbacks from property lines, number of birds, and waste management may apply to ensure sanitary conditions and neighborly coexistence.
- Harmless Keeping: The ordinance specifies that fowl or other domestic pets must be kept in a "harmless" manner. This implies responsibility for ensuring the animals are well-maintained, do not create excessive noise, odors, or attract pests, and are not a danger or nuisance to neighbors.
Steps to Consider for Prospective Chicken Keepers
If you are considering keeping chickens in Dearborn, it's advisable to:
- Review the Full Ordinance: While the general allowance is known, specific details regarding coop construction, waste disposal, and other potential requirements are usually outlined within the full ordinance. Contacting the City of Dearborn's relevant department (e.g., Health Department, City Clerk's office) for the most current and complete version of Part II, Section 4-1 is recommended.
- Contact the City Health Officer: Reach out to the city health officer's department to understand the permit application process, fees, and any specific inspections or conditions that might be required.
- Plan Your Setup: Ensure your property can accommodate chickens responsibly, considering coop design for shelter and predator protection, space for foraging, and methods for managing waste effectively to prevent odors and pests.
By understanding and adhering to the city's regulations, Dearborn residents can enjoy the benefits of having backyard chickens.
