Backyard Chickens: Understanding Township Regulations

With the growing popularity of backyard chicken keeping, the Township has seen an increase in inquiries from residents. The Zoning Ordinance establishes guidelines for animal ownership to protect the community. Here's the scoop on keeping chickens: 

• Permitted with Restrictions: Chickens are allowed, but coops and runs must be at least 25 feet away from neighboring homes and property lines. 
• No Roosters: Those noisy alarm clocks are prohibited. 
• No Permits Required: You don't need a special permit for chickens or other domestic/farm animals. 

Plainfield Township classifies animals as follows: 

• Domestic Animals: Cats, dogs, chinchillas, ferrets, fish, non-venomous reptiles, caged amphibians, birds, and rodents fall into this category. 
• Farm Animals: Horses, pigs, cattle, sheep, goats, llamas, chickens, geese, ducks, other waterfowl, turkeys, and animals raised for commercial purposes. These have stricter setback requirements (50ft for structures, 100ft free-range), except chickens and domesticated waterfowl which follow the 25ft rule. 
• Wild Animals: Keeping wild animals is prohibited. 

All animal owners must keep their animals confined to their property and provide clean, safe living conditions. 

For the full details on the Township's Zoning Ordinance related to animals, click here and review Section 3.02. Have additional questions? Contact the Community Development Department with any questions at (616) 364-1190 .