ICYMI: Lakewood Backyard Chicken Legislation Closer to Crossing the Road

The ability to raise chickens in their backyards came another step closer to more Lakewood residents after Monday's City Council's Housing Committee meeting. Cleveland.com reports that the initial pilot program could be expanded - the committee will meet once more before the matter is brought before full council.

The original pilot program allowed for a small number of qualified families to raise no more than six hens in their backyards for eggs. To qualify, the property had to meet setback requirements and the family needed to get training on how to maintain a chicken coop.

The changes suggested at Monday's meeting included expanding the total number of permits issued to 50 with no more than 13 issued per year. Another proposal concerning the height of the coop was rejected due to building code and visibility concerns. There were also requests from some of the pilot participants that the setback requirement be reduced from 20 feet to six feet so the coops could be closer to their homes, this was also rejected.

The committee felt that sticking to the way the pilot program was drawn up was the best course of action for now. Committee member, Cindy Marx said that changes could be considered in the future.

A vote could come before City Council as soon as early May after the committee finishes their discussions on April 25th.