Beech Grove has unusually strict ordinances limiting the ability of residents to keep chickens. The city of a little over 14,000 allows each resident to keep six hens and no roosters. Indianapolis, on the other hand, allows residents to keep up to 12 chickens and one rooster. Neither city’s limits take into account the size of an individual’s property, and for that reason, local leaders should replace their arbitrary limits with evidence-based policy that accounts for public health as well as the property rights of local residents.
Keeping chickens in Beech Grove
Animal health experts generally agree that three to four square feet of space per chicken in a coop, and around eight to 10 square feet of space per chicken in a run is sufficient. Beech Grove requires three square feet of space per chicken in both coops and runs, and has strict rules around coop construction and cleanliness. These rules are more than enough to maintain a healthy environment for chickens and our neighbors.
Some might be concerned that these chickens might become a nuisance. However, hens are quieter than most dogs and can be virtually undetectable in the right backyard environment, as long as they are taken care of properly.
The cost of arbitrary limits on chickens in Beech Grove
With the ever-rising cost of groceries – the price of eggs hit $6.23 nationally back in March – it is the perfect time for Beech Grove to update their laws on backyard chickens.
If another wave of bird flu wipes out millions of chickens like it did earlier this year, household chickens would provide a significant bulwark against supply chain disruptions to the market for eggs in Beech Grove, along with the benefit of promoting sustainability.
If you agree, you can sign a petition supporting the change here.