LAKE COUNTY, Fla. – Eustis city commissioners on Thursday approved a measure to allow backyard chickens within city limits, though it comes with some caveats.
The latest ordinance requires residents to first acquire a city permit before keeping hens, and no more than 15 of these permits may be issued citywide at any given time.
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As such, applicants may be forced to wait until a permit becomes available.
Some of the other rules included in the ordinance are as follows:
- Fees: Application fees are $75, with an annual renewal fee of $25.
- Terms: Permits shall expire annually on Sept. 30 unless renewed.
- Number/Type: No more than three hens are allowed, and roosters are prohibited. Slaughtering hens is also considered a violation.
- Location: Coops and runs must be screened and located in the backyard, at least 5 feet from all property lines and 20 feet from anyone’s home on an adjacent lot.
- Nuisances: Hens must not cause odors, pests or noise nuisances. They must also remain confined.
Meanwhile, Lake County Commissioner Anthony Sabatini celebrated the ordinance’s approval on social media.
It’s not the only Lake County city to allow backyard chickens, though.
Earlier this year, Clermont also permitted the practice, joining the ranks of other Central Florida cities like Winter Garden, Orlando and St. Cloud.
For those interested, there are chicken-raising classes available in Central Florida through the University of Florida’s Agricultural Extension.