A proposed ordinance that would allow chickens within the South Bend City Limits has picked up an endorsement.
The Area Plan Commission Staff has given the measure a favorable recommendation, noting that setback restrictions for coops would limit chickens to the city's larger lots.
Chicken coops would have to be located 15 feet from a property line and 20 feet from the nearest residential dwelling.
The report notes that the policy decision on whether or not to allow chickens to be kept lies with elected officials. The ordinance, as proposed, provides reasonable protection to adjacent properties, by establishing a process for permitting, and consequences for violating the ordinance.
The measure goes before the Area Plan Commission at a meeting next Tuesday the 16. Final approval rests with the South Bend Common Council.
