Keeping Backyard Chickens in Philadelphia, PA
Your Essential Urban Farming Guide
Urban farming enthusiasts in Philadelphia, PA, have shown a growing interest in keeping backyard chickens, a trend mirroring the increased popularity of local and sustainable food sources. The concept of raising chickens in a city environment offers numerous benefits, including fresh eggs, natural pest control, and the joys of animal husbandry. As a response to the public’s interest, regulations in Philadelphia have evolved to accommodate urban poultry, though with certain limitations to ensure the coexistence with the urban setting is harmonious and community-friendly.
Residents of Philadelphia are permitted to keep chickens in their backyards, adhering to specific guidelines designed to maintain the welfare of the chickens and the serenity of the neighborhood. A key aspect of the city's regulations is the prohibition of roosters to minimize noise, and the restriction on the number of chickens one can own, typically allowing up to six hens. Furthermore, the laws aim to address public health and safety, mandating the proper upkeep and placement of chicken coops to avert nuisances and preserve the urban landscape.
For individuals interested in the practice, it's essential to familiarize themselves with local zoning and permit requirements that may affect their ability to keep backyard chickens. The pursuit of raising poultry in Philadelphia is illustrative of a wider movement towards self-sustenance and environmental consciousness in urban communities. However, success in this endeavor relies on a robust understanding of the city's regulations and a commitment to responsible animal care.
Understanding the Local Law and Regulations
The city of Philadelphia has specific ordinances addressing the keeping of backyard chickens, with recent efforts aimed at changing these regulations. Residents must be aware of the existing legal framework, penalties for non-compliance, and ongoing efforts towards legalization within the city.
Philadelphia City Ordinances
Under current Philadelphia City Ordinances, the keeping of chickens in backyards is tightly regulated. The city code allows for a limited number of chickens to be kept by residents, with the maximum typically being six hens. It is important to note that roosters are prohibited from being kept on residential properties to prevent noise disturbance.
Maximum number of chickens allowed: 6 hens
Prohibited: Roosters
These rules are designed to maintain public health and safety, as well as to minimize conflicts between neighbors.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Residents who do not adhere to the city's chicken ordinances may face penalties. The specific consequences can vary, but they are put in place to enforce the regulations set by the city. Penalties might include fines and, in some cases, the removal of the chickens from the property. It is crucial for residents to understand these potential repercussions to avoid legal trouble.
Potential penalties include:
Fines
Removal of chickens
Legalization Efforts in Philadelphia
There have been ongoing efforts to legalize backyard chickens in Philadelphia. City Council members have been active in proposing changes to the existing ordinances. These proposed changes aim at making the keeping of backyard chickens more accessible for Philadelphia residents, potentially providing more lenient regulations and clear guidelines for urban poultry farming.
Current effort: Amend city ordinances to allow easier keeping of backyard chickens
Aim: Increase accessibility and provide clear regulations
Advocates for legalization argue that allowing backyard chickens supports local food systems and provides economic benefits to residents, especially in light of fluctuating egg prices.
Setting Up Your Chicken Coop
When setting up a chicken coop in Philadelphia, PA, one must adhere to specific regulations such as space requirements and location constraints to ensure a suitable environment for the chickens.
Choosing the Right Location
The location of your chicken coop should allow for at least one square foot inside the coop and two square feet in an outdoor run per chicken. It's crucial that the chosen spot is:
At least three feet from property lines.
Ten feet or more from any residential buildings.
These regulations not only provide adequate space for chickens but also respect neighbors and zoning laws.
Building or Buying a Coop
A coop can either be built to custom specifications or purchased pre-made. In either case, it must:
Be fully enclosed to protect chickens from predators.
Have sufficient ventilation to keep the air fresh and avoid moisture buildup.
When constructing or selecting a coop, use materials that will withstand Philadelphia's weather conditions, ensuring longevity and comfort for the chickens.
Maintaining a Clean and Safe Environment
Regular maintenance of the chicken coop is imperative. This includes:
Cleaning the coop to prevent odors and deterring pests.
Ensuring the enclosure is secure at all times.
By maintaining a clean and safe environment, chicken owners contribute to the well-being of their birds and the cleanliness of their backyard spaces.
Selecting Your Chickens
When introducing backyard chickens into a Philadelphia home, potential keepers should consider the breeds available, the permissible number of chickens, and the gender that best suits their needs.
Understanding Different Breeds
Selecting the right breed of chickens is crucial. In Philadelphia, owners often opt for hardy breeds that can tolerate variable weather conditions. Black Stars are known for their robust health and prolific egg-laying, making them a suitable choice for productivity-focused keepers. For those interested in colorful eggs, the Easter Eggers provide a range of shell colors and are friendly, which is advantageous for family-oriented backyards. The breed of chicken will also dictate space needs and temperament, key factors for urban settings.
Deciding on the Number of Chickens
The number of chickens one decides to keep should align with the space available and local legislation. Philadelphia law permits up to six female chickens on residential properties. Keepers must ensure adequate space is available to maintain the health and cleanliness of these birds. Notably:
Space per chicken: At least 2-3 square feet inside the coop
Outdoor space: 8-10 square feet per chicken in the run
Adhering to these guidelines helps prevent overcrowding and promotes a healthy environment for the chickens to thrive.
Hens vs. Roosters
Philadelphia's urban settings generally favor hens over roosters due to noise considerations; in fact, roosters are not allowed on residential properties to prevent disturbances. Hens are quieter, and they are the egg-layers, making them the go-to choice for city dwellers looking to embrace backyard poultry for eggs without causing a ruckus. It's also important to know that all chickens, regardless of gender, can contribute to companionship and pest control in a garden setting.
Feeding and Caring for Your Chickens
When raising backyard chickens in Philadelphia, proper nutrition, consistent health checks, and responsible waste management are crucial. Here's how to meet these needs.
Nutritional Requirements
Chickens require a balanced diet to stay healthy. A typical chicken feed should include:
Proteins: Essential for growth and egg production.
Carbohydrates: Provide energy.
Fats: Offer energy and help absorb vitamins.
Vitamins and Minerals: Crucial for overall health.
An example feeding regime could be to provide commercial chicken feed fortified with essential nutrients to fulfill these dietary needs. Additionally, health-conscious consumers may opt for organic feed to ensure their chickens are not consuming pesticides or genetically modified ingredients.
Farmers can also complement their chickens' diet with food scraps, contributing to a sustainable practice by reducing food waste. However, it is important to note that not all kitchen scraps are suitable for chickens.
Health and Wellness
Regular health checks help identify any potential issues early on. An owner should observe their chickens daily for changes in behavior or appearance which may indicate health problems. Vaccinations and preventive measures for pests and diseases are part of ensuring long-term wellness.
Chickens also contribute to pest control by eating various insects, which can reduce the reliance on chemical pest control methods in the garden.
Managing Waste Responsibly
Chicken manure is high in nitrogen and valuable as a garden fertilizer, but it must be managed properly:
Composting: Chicken waste can be composted before being used in the garden, reducing pathogens.
Storage: Manure should be stored away from water sources to prevent contamination.
Application: Properly aged manure can be applied to gardens, but it's important to follow guidelines to protect water quality.
Community Relations and Urban Farming
The increase in urban farming in Philadelphia, especially concerning backyard chickens, underscores the importance of maintaining harmonious community relations and integrating livestock into urban agriculture sustainably.
Being a Good Neighbor
When one decides to keep backyard chickens, understanding and mitigating the potential impact on neighbors is crucial. They should address noise and odor, two primary concerns associated with poultry. Regular cleaning of coops and thoughtful placement away from neighboring properties can significantly reduce these issues. Neighbors also appreciate transparency and openness, which can be facilitated through community groups. For example, Philadelphia Backyard Chickens, a Facebook group, serves as a platform where members discuss best practices and foster a sense of community.
Integrating Chickens into Urban Agriculture
Incorporating chickens into Philadelphia’s urban agriculture scene extends beyond individual households to include community initiatives. Entities like Weaver’s Way Co-op play an integral role in promoting urban farming. They advocate for the responsible keeping of backyard chickens, emphasizing the birds’ role in producing eggs, enhancing soil fertility, and contributing to sustainable living. Chickens can support urban agriculture by providing an educational tool for residents to learn about food sources and fostering a local food system that reduces dependency on external resources.
Economic Considerations
When considering the economics of raising backyard chickens in Philadelphia, individuals must evaluate both the initial investment and the ongoing costs, alongside potential financial gains that can offset these expenses.
Costs Associated with Raising Chickens
Start-Up Costs: The initial financial outlay for aspiring poultry keepers includes purchasing or constructing a coop, which can vary in price from a few hundred to thousands of dollars depending on the size and complexity. They must also consider the cost of purchasing chickens, which typically ranges from $3 to $30 per bird. Essential supplies such as feeders, waterers, bedding, and fencing for protection add to the initial budget.
Coop: $200 - $2000+
Chickens: $3 - $30 per bird
Supplies: $50 - $200
Ongoing Costs: The primary recurring cost for chicken owners is feed, which can cost approximately $0.10 per day, per chicken. Additionally, costs for veterinary care, bedding replacement, and coop maintenance can accumulate over time.
Feed: Approx. $0.10/day per chicken
Veterinary Care: Variable
Bedding/Maintenance: Variable
Potential Financial Benefits
Organic Eggs: One of the key financial benefits of raising backyard chickens is the production of homegrown, often organic eggs. Considering that organic eggs can cost between $3 and $5 per dozen in stores, homeowners can recoup some of their expenses by consuming or selling the eggs their chickens produce.
Cost-Effectiveness Over Time: While the initial investment might be considerable, long-term cost-effectiveness is achievable. The daily cost of feeding a chicken is substantially low, and the continuous supply of eggs can reduce the household's grocery budget significantly.
By evaluating these economic considerations, Philadelphia residents can make informed decisions about raising backyard chickens and the potential for a return on their investment.
Additional Resources and Support
For residents of Philadelphia interested in keeping backyard chickens, a variety of resources and support networks are available. These range from local educational workshops to extensive online communities.
Local Workshops and Educational Programs
Local workshops and education programs offer valuable, hands-on experience. Maureen Breen, a prominent backyard chicken activist in Philadelphia, is known for her involvement in expanding chicken-keeping knowledge. Enthusiasts can attend workshops in areas like Fox Chase to learn about raising chickens and the benefits they offer. Primex Garden Center and Davis Feed are noted for their seasonal offerings, which include sessions on the care and keeping of backyard poultry.
Online Communities and Retailers
Online communities are a treasure trove of information. Websites such as Murray McMurray Hatchery and MyPetChicken.com provide an extensive range of resources, from forums for discussion to supplies needed for keeping backyard chickens. Retailers like Tractor Supply Co. not only sell chicks in the spring but also host valuable guides and tips on their websites, aiding both the novice and experienced chicken keepers.
Emerging Trends and Cultural Impact
In Philadelphia, the trend of keeping backyard chickens has seen a notable rise, particularly accentuated during the pandemic and influenced by shifting consumer eating habits toward more sustainable and local food sources.
Backyard Chickens During the Pandemic
Throughout the pandemic, Philadelphia residents demonstrated a keen interest in sustainability and self-sufficiency, leading to an increase in the number of backyard chickens. The lockdowns provided individuals with more time at home, which they utilized to engage in activities such as raising chickens. This upsurge not only represents a move toward personal provision but also a burgeoning community interested in local food production. Local groups have seen their memberships rise, reflecting a community-driven push towards embracing and legalizing this practice.
Shift in Consumer Eating Habits
The consumer shift towards valuing locally-sourced and homemade food has had a broader impact, observable in the surge of chicken sandwiches offered by fast-food chains such as McDonald's, Wendy's, and Philadelphia's own Federal Donuts (how long do donuts last?). Shake Shack, another key player, has also expanded its menu to meet this demand. These trends reflect a larger cultural shift in eating habits where consumers increasingly prefer foods perceived as fresher, healthier and with known provenance, a perspective that backyard chicken keeping directly aligns with.
Legal and Ethical Aspects of Raising Chickens
Keeping backyard chickens in Philadelphia requires observing city-specific livestock regulations and a commitment to ethical animal husbandry. Under these frameworks, residents must navigate both legal statutes and considerations for animal welfare.
Animal Welfare and Best Practices
Philadelphia's residents must uphold standards that ensure the welfare of the chickens. Ethical practices include:
Providing adequate space, shelter, and nutritious food
Ensuring proper veterinary care to maintain health
Following city ordinance that dictates no more than six chickens may be kept on a property, excluding roosters to prevent noise issues
Noncompliance with these standards may lead to interactions with the Animal Care and Control Team (ACCT) and potential citations.
Handling Complaints and Legal Disputes
Legal disputes often arise from complaints related to noise or odor. To mitigate these issues, residents are advised to:
Keep chicken coops a minimum of three feet from property lines and ten feet from occupied dwellings
Be proactive in community relations to address potential complaints swiftly
When ordinances are violated, the city council may intervene, resulting in fines or other penalties for the homeowner. Legislation, introduced by the city council, continues to evolve in alignment with urban agricultural trends and community feedback, creating a dynamic legal landscape. Recorded violations contribute to future regulatory considerations.
Health and Safety
When keeping backyard chickens in Philadelphia, PA, maintaining health and safety for both the birds and the community is paramount. This involves implementing disease control measures, safeguarding chickens from potential predators, and ensuring harmonious cohabitation with other pets.
Disease Control and Prevention
The risk of disease transmission from backyard chickens to humans can be managed by adhering to USDA guidelines for health and safety. Owners should regularly clean and disinfect coops and equipment to prevent the spread of pathogens. It's essential to establish a routine for:
Sanitization: Utilize recommended disinfectants for cleaning coops and feeders.
Veterinary Care: Schedule regular health checks for the birds, keeping an eye on symptoms of illnesses common to chickens and farm animals.
Safety Measures for Preventing Predation
Backyard chickens in urban environments, like Philadelphia, are susceptible to various predators. Defending against them is achieved through proper coop construction and vigilant management:
Secure Housing: Ensure coops are fortified with sturdy materials to prevent entry from predators such as raccoons, which may be prevalent in areas like Detroit and Elkins Park.
Fencing: Implement high-quality fencing to deter climbing or digging animals. Specific areas, like Cheltenham Township, might have local wildlife that requires additional precautions.
Integration with Other Pets
Chickens can coexist with household pets, such as dogs and cats, given the correct training and socialization. However, it's crucial to introduce them cautiously and monitor interactions closely:
Supervision: Never leave chickens unattended with pets, especially in the initial stages of introduction.
Separate Areas: Provide separate spaces for chickens and pets when unsupervised to ensure safety for all animals involved.
By applying these targeted strategies, residents of Philadelphia can create a safe and healthy environment for their backyard chickens.
