Plano residents now allowed to own backyard chickens

Free range chickens. (Photo by John Greim/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Plano city leaders voted 7-1 Monday in favor of an ordinance that allows residents to raise chickens in their backyards.

The city council has been exploring the idea, which became more popular with soaring egg prices and shortages during the pandemic. 

During the summer, several residents spoke in favor of allowing chickens within city limits. The planning and zoning commission also changed the city’s zoning ordinance as a first step in allowing the animals.

Under Plano's new animal regulations ordinance, residents are allowed to have up to 10 adult animals on their property. That includes pets like cats and dogs and now hens. Roosters are prohibited.

Hen owners must obtain a permit, complete an educational course on how to care for the animals and follow specific enclosure and housing requirements. 

The ordinance does allow owners to sell their eggs.

Homeowners’ associations can still prohibit backyard chicken.

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