The Village Board of the Village of Chittenango hereby finds
that the keeping of hens can play a role in ensuring a source of local
food and a sustainable environment but that the improper maintenance
of hens in residential neighborhoods may cause nuisances to nearby
residential properties and can create conditions which are unsanitary
and unsafe. Therefore, it is the intent of the Village Board, pursuant
to Article IX of the New York State Constitution, Article 18 of the
General Municipal Law and §§ 10 and 20 of the Municipal
Home Rule Law of New York State, to permit and regulate the keeping
of hens within the Village of Chittenango. This chapter shall allow
the harboring of small flocks of hens, subject to permit, by residents
of single-family dwellings. The conditions imposed by this chapter
are intended to facilitate the harboring of hens in a manner that
is consistent with the residential character of the Village and so
as to not cause or contribute to nuisances or pollution or otherwise
adversely impact neighboring property owners in any way.
As used in this chapter, the following terms have the meanings
indicated:
CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
The Village of Chittenango Code Enforcement Officer, or his/her
duly authorized representative.
COOP
A permanent or mobile structure that is designed to shelter
hens from the weather and predators.
NEIGHBOR
Any property owner or resident within 300 feet of the property
to be affected by said appeal.
RUN
An enclosed, covered area for chickens to roam and eat.
VILLAGE
The Village of Chittenango.
It shall be unlawful for any person, association, group or organization
within the limits of the Village to harbor hens without first having
obtained, having paid for and having in force and effect a valid,
current permit. Roosters (male chickens) are prohibited within the
Village.
Educational literature shall be provided by the Village with
the application materials.