Are chickens & goats allowed as pets in Columbus? See what’s allowed in city limits
Always on trend, many Columbus households are a part of the 17 million families who own backyard chickens. In fact, pet pigs, goats, mini-cows and emus are having a moment right now. But what are the rules for animals living in the city?
A lot of these animals are classified as farm animals and are generally prohibited, there are some exceptions according to the Columbus Consolidated Government, but they’re pretty narrow if you live in Columbus proper.
Strict guidelines won’t necessarily stop dedicated animal lovers from amassing all the furry critters they can. So, what can you do as both a city-dweller and a novice animal keeper?
Can I keep chickens in my backyard?
The short answer is yes, however, roosters are strictly prohibited within city limits. Because of the noise nuisance of the early morning wake-up call and the potential aggression many roosters display, it’s impractical to let them enjoy city-living. Besides, they aren’t really necessary for egg production.
If you want to get some hens for your yard, however, Columbus is more permissible as long as you follow these rules:
Chickens are only allowed on lots that are two acres or larger.
On eligible lots, 32 chickens are allowed per acre after the first two acres.
Structures for housing chickens must be located at least 100 feet from any lot line.
Whether you are a chicken-newbie or a seasoned chicken keeper Texas Real Food, chicken experts, have some advice. They suggest obtaining, “essential knowledge includ[ing] understanding nutritional needs, coop maintenance, protection from predators, and recognizing common poultry diseases” to keep your cluckers clucking.
What about goats, mini-cows or pigs inside Columbus?
The city ordinance governing farm animals generally prohibits owning farm animals and states, “Harboring domestic animals and farm animals shall be prohibited within the city limits unless the domestic animal is a pet or the domestic animal is in the possession of a keeper.”
Other requirements include
A minimum lot size of two acres
Structures used for housing must be located at least 100 feet from any lot line
Owners must ensure that keeping goats does not cause detrimental noise or odor to other properties or residents in the area
It’s unlawful to allow farm animals to run on public property or private property other than the owner’s
Penalties can get steep for violators.
According to Columbus Animal Care and Control, all violations of ordinances concerning animal control could cost you a fine of up to $1,000 or land you in jail for up to 90 days, but chicken-owners have special guidelines.
The laws for chickens are a little less severe, and violators will have 30 days to correct and comply after they’ve received written notice.
The fine is $100 for the first violation
It increases in $100 increments for subsequent violations
The maximum fine for chicken-related violations is $1,000
Do you own any pets that the fines and penalties are worth paying? Send me their pics or find me on Instagram.
This story was originally published August 27, 2024 at 6:00 AM.
