Lexington Approves First Reading of Residential Chickens Ordinance

Lexington residents may soon be able to raise chickens closer to their homes.

Town leaders approved the first reading Monday of an ordinance that will allow chickens in residential areas. 

An existing town ordinance requires chicken coops to be at least 500 feet away from a home, making it difficult for town residents with small yards to raise chickens.

The new ordinance would allow chicken coops in residents' back yards as long as they are at least 25 feet from any property line.

The ordinance allows residents to keep no more than four chickens on any residential lot in the town limits. Roosters are not allowed.

Residents also have to obtain a permit for $20 from the town. The town's ordinance won't override any neighborhood restrictions on raising chickens. 

Some residents expressed concerns about cleanliness and the chickens attracting other pests, but the town will require residents who have chickens to provide disposal of waste and pest control. 

Code enforcement officers will have to approve any chicken coops. 

Town leaders have been discussing the issue since August. Council members have to approve one more reading and hold a public hearing before the ordinance is officially passed.