MARSHALL — A proposal to allow backyard chickens within Marshall city limits failed to pass after a divided city council vote on Tuesday. The motion to adopt a backyard chicken ordinance was rejected in a 3-2 vote, with concerns over animal health, community support, and enforcement cited by opposing council members.
The proposal was part of broader updates to the city’s animal ordinances aimed at aligning regulations with current practices. Updates included removing restrictions on common pets like hamsters and guinea pigs and formalizing permissions for temporary petting zoos at local events.
The proposed chicken ordinance would have permitted residents to keep up to five hens, with strict rules prohibiting roosters and slaughtering, and requiring backyard coops and setbacks.
Council members opposing the measure said there was little public demand for backyard chickens. Mayor Bob Byrnes voiced concerns about public and animal health, citing avian influenza risks and potential neighborhood disputes.
Supporters argued that the ordinance was reasonable and could enhance community inclusivity, especially for residents from diverse backgrounds where keeping chickens is customary.
After the chicken proposal failed, the council approved a revised ordinance update excluding backyard chickens in a 4-1 vote.
