Nine-year-old Lila Feely is making a case for backyard chickens in Milford, Pike County. At a recent meeting of The Milford Borough Planning Commission, Lila proposed a change to the current ordinance that only allows farmers to keep chickens. She argued that allowing residents to keep chickens in their backyards would not only provide a source of eggs but also contribute to conservation efforts.
The current ordinance classifies chickens as a Class 3 conditional animal, also known as livestock. To raise poultry, a person must own at least five acres and have their home assessed as a “qualified farm”. Under the proposed changes, a home could have a maximum of four hens, with no roosters, and a 25-foot setback.
The Commission raised concerns about potential odor, housing, and the attraction of predators such as foxes. However, they also acknowledged the benefits, including additional food sources for families and pest control for fleas, ticks, and spotted lanternflies.
According to the Pike County Courier, no agreement was reached at the meeting, but a motion will be made to bring the proposal before the council at a later date.