Domestic Chickens Use Regulations, Article 5.4.12-B of the Durham Unified Development Ordinance

Jurisdiction Name: Durham
State/Province: NC
Country: United States
Type of Government: Municipality
Population: 228,330
Population Range: 50,000 to 249,999
Policy Links: WebPDF
Policy type: ordinance
Year: 2009
GFC Topic: community food production
Keywords: agriculture, backyard animals, backyard chickens, chickens, food production, urban, urban agriculture, zoning
Adopting Government Department(s):

Durham City Council

Lead Implementing Entity(s): Department of City Planning
Support Entity(s):

n/a

Funding Amount: n/a
Funding Sources: n/a
Policy Outcome(s):

The ordinance authorizes and provides standards for keeping domesticated chickens. Ten female chickens are allowed on lots with single-family homes and townhouses and no agricultural permit is required. Chickens, eggs, and manure from permitted chickens should not be sold. In addition, produce on which chicken manure was used as fertilizer or compost may not be sold. Coops are required, and the chickens must have adequate living conditions and regular maintenance and care of the area is required. Manure must be stored securely in a waterproof container and disposed of regularly. The coops shall be at least 15 feet from any property line or public right of way.

Additional Resources and Information: Link 1