Chicken Update – Regulations on Backyard Hens in the Kansas City Area
CHICKENS IN THE KANSAS CITY AREA?
One of my most popular blog articles continues to be Sarah’s Guide to Backyard Chicken Regulations in the Kansas City Area, which I posted nearly two years ago. During this time, the popularity of backyard chickens seems to have soared, and I am so happy that my little chart has helped so many people. Updating the chart and adding more cities is on my to-do list, but for now, I just update it as I learn of changes in city codes.
MY CHICKEN STORY
When I posted that chart back in 2010, it was a result of personal research and interest. I knew that I wanted a few backyard hens for eggs, but I had no knowledge of our local rules and regulations. Upon learning that chickens were permitted in my city, I set about researching coops and convincing the husband, and in the spring of 2012, we finally got chickens. It is easier, more entertaining, and less poopy than I imagined. I really love having backyard hens. We are now collecting eggs daily, thankfully the dog is over her initial predator-prey instincts, and the chickens are healthy and fun to watch.
Want to find a chicken-friendly property in the Kansas City area?
I can help you find a home where chickens are legal, welcome, and practical.
NEED YOUR HELP
One thing that I have experienced challenges with is finding clean, organic, locally grown feed. For me, part of the reason for having chickens is to have delicious eggs produced by chickens who eat a clean, natural diet. Are you having the same challenges or do you know of a great local resource? I am considering starting a local backyard hen club or co-op so that we can bulk buy and share supplies and feed. Is anyone interested in something like this? Please send me an email with the subject line “Chickens” so that I can keep your email on file and contact you with chicken-related information.
I was wondering if you might like some whey to feed your chickens. I have started making cheese with many failed attempts. Despite making bread and pizza dough with much of it and freezing some for later, I still have a ton. The whey I have at the moment was from Kalona Supernatural organic milk…let me know two doors down. I would be happy if it was used and I don’t have to throw it out. Katy
Katy,
I suppose it couldn’t hurt to try a little and see what the chickens think. Maybe you and the girls could stop by to bring a little bit of whey and meet the hens this weekend or next weekend. We’ll just do a trial run on the whey – I honestly know nothing about it. Thank you for the offer! -Sarah
We leave for the weekend on Saturday, but I could leave a pitcher of it on your porch. You can just pour out in the sink what you don’t use. The girls and I have gone to see your chickens through the fence a few times already. If we knew for sure we were staying here a while, I’d be so tempted to get chickens too! We will definitely have to meet them up close soon.
Lee’s Summit Community and Economic Development Committee will meet Wednesday, November 28th at 6:00pm, with Urban Chickens as an agenda item. They are trying to get a feel for the interest level in modifying the ordinance. Currently there is a 400 ft rule, which puts a damper on most properties.
Arthur,
How did the meeting go? Have you heard any news?
-Sarah
The last meeting proved there was interest enough to have city staff draft possible ordinance modifications. So it is going forward slowly. Next Wednesday, April 17th, the ordinance drafts are agenda item #7:
“An Ordinance Amending Article I In General and Article VI Animal Abuse of chapter 5 Animals of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Lee’s Summit and Creating Article VII – Chickens of Chapter 5 Animals of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Lee’s Summit – Major Mark Taylor, Police Support Services and George Harding, Manager of Animal Control”
On 6/19 the Economic Development Council voted to send the amended ordinances to the full board. When that gets scheduled, all the supporters need to come back to meeting.
Proposed ordinances are on the agenda for the July 11th meeting.
Last step tonight getting my special use permit approved in Overland Park. Wish me luck!
Lisa, how did it go?
-Sarah
Hi fellow henthusiasts,
I’m very interested in getting to know more chicken people! I live in Roeland Park and now have an ordinance that clearly allows backyard hens. What about having a “hen party” meet and greet? I think the idea of a co-op for buying bulk feed is a wonderful idea Sarah.
I would be happy to find a meeting place and set up a get together if there’s any interest.
sheri
Any updates regarding smithville, mo hen/chicken ordinances?
Is there any information on Kansas City, Kansas or is anyone working on changing the ordinances there? I would be interested in helping if so. Also, how do you go about getting a special permit? Which department would I go to and does anyone know the procedure? Thanks so much.
Michelle,
I don’t know, but maybe someone else with specific KC,KS knowledge will chime in here. You might just call the City Clerk’s office and ask for instructions for appealing to get a special permit; they can point you in the right direction.