No, generally, you cannot have chickens on most properties in Middletown Township, Pennsylvania. The township has strict regulations that prohibit chickens on the vast majority of residential properties.
Understanding Middletown Township's Chicken Regulations
Middletown Township's Code of Ordinances, specifically outlined in Chapter 500, contains the rules regarding livestock, including chickens. These regulations are quite restrictive, allowing chickens only under very specific conditions.
The key points to understand are:
- General Prohibition: Chickens are explicitly prohibited on most properties within the township. This means that if your property does not meet the stringent criteria, keeping chickens is not permitted.
- Limited Exceptions: Chickens are only allowed on properties that meet two critical conditions simultaneously:
- The property must be larger than 10 acres.
- The property must be located within certain residential agriculture zoning districts.
This means that even if a property is over 10 acres, if it's not zoned for residential agriculture, chickens are still not permitted. Conversely, if a property is in the correct zoning but is under 10 acres, chickens are also not allowed.
Key Conditions for Chicken Ownership in Middletown Township
To summarize the current regulations, here's a quick overview:
| Condition | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Property Size | Must be larger than 10 acres |
| Zoning District | Must be located within certain residential agriculture zoning districts |
| General Rule | Chickens are prohibited on most other properties, regardless of size or zone |
Practical Considerations for Residents
Given these regulations, residents of Middletown Township who are interested in keeping chickens should:
- Verify Property Size: Accurately determine the exact acreage of their property.
- Check Zoning: Confirm the specific zoning designation of their property. This information is typically available through the township's planning or zoning department. It's crucial to understand that not all "residential" zones will qualify as a "residential agriculture zoning district."
- Consult Official Ordinances: Always refer to the most current version of Middletown Township's Code of Ordinances for the definitive rules. Zoning laws can be complex, and official documentation is the most reliable source.
It is important to note that local regulations can sometimes be subject to change or review. However, as of the current ordinances, the rules are very clear and restrictive regarding chicken ownership.
