Keeping Backyard Chickens in Everett, WA
Essential Tips for Urban Poultry Farming
In Everett, Washington, the rising trend of urban agriculture includes the practice of keeping backyard chickens. This practice is guided by specific city ordinances that outline the conditions under which residents can raise poultry in their own backyards. These regulations are in place to maintain public health and safety, ensure animal welfare, and minimize neighborhood disputes that may arise from noise and odor complaints. Residents considering adding chickens to their households must adhere to these rules to avoid legal issues and to ensure that their endeavor into backyard poultry is successful and compliant.
The city of Everett requires that any person interested in keeping backyard chickens must familiarize themselves with the local chicken ordinances. These laws regulate aspects such as the allowable number of chickens per property, coop construction standards, setback requirements from neighboring properties, and the prohibition of roosters due to noise concerns. Understanding and complying with these regulations is crucial for anyone looking to embrace the benefits of backyard chickens, such as fresh eggs and the joy of animal husbandry, while remaining a considerate neighbor in the community.
Benefits of Raising Backyard Chickens
Raising chickens in one's backyard in Everett, Washington, provides a host of benefits for homeowners. First and foremost, fresh eggs are a significant advantage. These eggs are not only fresh, but owners can ensure their organic quality by controlling the diet of their chickens, leading to a healthier option compared to store-bought eggs.
Chickens offer natural pest control as they forage for insects in the backyard, which can help in maintaining a healthier garden. At the same time, they contribute natural fertilizer through their droppings, enriching the soil's nutrient profile for better plant growth.
Beyond practical benefits, chickens can also be inexpensive pets that require relatively low start-up and maintenance costs. Their presence in the backyard adds a layer of liveliness and educational value, especially for families with children. Curiosity is sparked, and important lessons about responsibility, food sources, and animal care can be imparted.
Below is a brief outline of the perks of backyard chicken-keeping:
Eggs: A steady, organic food source.
Pest Control: Chickens control insects through their natural foraging.
Soil Health: Their droppings enrich soil fertility.
Cost: Low maintenance pets.
Education: They provide learning experiences for families.
Maintaining chickens aligns with a sustainable lifestyle, promotes self-sufficiency, and can lead to a rewarding hobby. Though small in stature, chickens offer substantial rewards for the effort invested in their care.
Understanding Everett's Chicken Ordinances
Before acquiring backyard chickens in Everett, Washington, it is crucial for residents to familiarize themselves with the specific local ordinances that govern the keeping of poultry. Compliance ensures responsible husbandry and good neighbor relations.
Basics of Local Chicken Laws
In Everett, chicken laws are established to manage urban poultry within city limits. These laws outline permissible activities and aim to minimize conflicts between chicken owners and their neighbors. Understanding and adhering to these laws ensures that chicken owners can raise their birds without legal complications.
Permit Requirements for Keeping Chickens
It's mandated that residents obtain a permit before keeping chickens. The permit process involves submitting an application and potentially undergoing an inspection to ensure compliance with local regulations. Prospective chicken keepers should check with Everett's Animal Services for current requirements and fees involved in the permitting process.
Number and Type of Chickens Allowed
The maximum number of chickens allowed within Everett is clearly defined by the city's ordinance. Typically, there is a limit on the number of hens one can keep in urban environments to mitigate issues such as noise, odor, and pests. This number can vary, and residents should verify the allowable limit with the city.
Hens Allowed: Exact number subject to current regulations
Roosters: Prohibited to control noise levels
Rooster Restrictions
Rooster restrictions are commonly enforced in Everett and similar urban areas to curtail noise disturbances. Residents are generally prohibited from keeping roosters due to their crowing, which can violate noise ordinances. Keeping roosters in the city could result in fines or the removal of the birds.
Coop Design and Location Guidelines
In Everett, Washington, residents need to be aware of specific regulations and best practices when it comes to designing and locating backyard chicken coops. Adherence to these guidelines ensures the well-being of the animals and compliance with local codes.
Coop Restrictions
Everett defines chickens as "small livestock," and there are regulations residents must follow. The city's Municipal Code 6.04.04 notes that for keeping 6 or fewer small livestock animals, including chickens, no license or permit is necessary. However, coop construction may be subject to building codes, and residents should contact the Building Codes department at (425) 257-8810 for more details.
Maximum Number of Chickens: No permit is required for up to 6 chickens.
Building Codes Compliance: Contact the local Building Codes department for specific construction requirements.
Best Practices for Coop Placement
When placing a chicken coop in a backyard, there are several best practices to consider. The coop should be located in a manner that's considerate of neighbors and follows any specific zoning regulations that apply to the residential area in question.
Proximity to Property Lines: Position coops away from neighboring property to minimize noise and odor impacts.
Accessibility: Ensure easy access for cleaning and maintenance, as well as for egg collection.
Security: Place the coop in a location that protects chickens from predators.
Shade and Shelter: It’s beneficial to have a part of the coop and pen in a shaded area, providing relief from weather extremes.
Before constructing or placing a coop, residents should contact Code Enforcement at (425) 257-8560 to verify any potential neighborhood-specific restrictions. This step will help confirm that all rules are followed and the planned coop will not lead to violations or neighborly disputes.
Responsible Chicken Ownership
In Everett, WA, responsible chicken ownership means ensuring the health and safety of the chickens, maintaining good relations with neighbors, and preventing unnecessary cruelty or attacks on the animals.
Health and Safety
Owners must be diligent in maintaining a clean environment for their chickens to prevent the spread of disease. Regular cleaning of coops and providing adequate space for each chicken is essential. Chickens need access to fresh water and appropriate feed for healthy growth and egg production. Protection from predators through secure housing is also critical to their safety.
Cleanliness: Coops should be cleaned regularly to avoid waste buildup and possible spread of disease.
Nutrition: Provide a balanced diet appropriate for the chickens' age and breed.
Protection: Ensure coops are secure against predators such as dogs, raccoons, or birds of prey.
Handling Neighbor Relations
The sound and smell of chickens can be a concern for neighbors, and an owner's attentiveness can foster a harmonious relationship.
Noise Management: Be mindful of noise levels, especially during early morning hours.
Odor Control: Keep the coop clean to minimize odors.
Inform neighbors about your chicken-keeping and be responsive to their concerns.
Preventing Cruelty and Attacks
It’s an owner’s duty to protect chickens from cruelty and prevent them from becoming nuisances or dangers to others.
Supervision: Chickens should be supervised while free-ranging to prevent them from straying into neighbors' yards.
Education: Owners should educate themselves on proper chicken handling to prevent unintentional cruelty.
Animal Control: In the unfortunate event of an attack on chickens by pets or wild animals, contact local animal control for assistance.
By adhering to these principles of care, owners contribute to a positive and sustainable practice of keeping backyard chickens.
Commonly Asked Questions
Keeping backyard chickens involves understanding local regulations and how to properly manage any issues that may arise. The city of Everett, WA allows residents to keep chickens and other types of poultry, but there are specific guidelines to follow.
Can I Own Other Poultry or Livestock?
In addition to chickens, residents of Everett can own other types of poultry, such as ducks and geese. Livestock such as goats and horses are also permitted within certain regulations. It's important to check the most current city ordinances for any limitations and requirements on the types and numbers of animals allowed.
What to Do in Case of Noise Complaints?
Roosters are typically associated with potential noise issues. Everett’s chicken ordinance does not permit roosters, helping to minimize noise complaints. If noise issues still arise, residents should be prepared to implement measures such as soundproofing their chicken coops or adjusting the location of their coop to adhere to city noise ordinances.
How to Update Information on Chicken Regulations?
Information regarding chicken and poultry regulations is subject to change. Residents should consult the City of Everett's official website or contact the city's Animal Services Department directly for the latest updates. Staying informed will ensure compliance with any new requirements or changes to existing regulations. The information users find should reflect the latest ordinances as of the most recent update.
Additional Resources and Contacts
This section provides direct contact information and links to resources for residents of Everett, WA interested in keeping backyard chickens. It aims to answer questions regarding local ordinances, building codes, and further guidance on the topic.
City/Organization Contact Information
Everett Code Enforcement
For inquiries related to chicken ordinances and enforcement:
Phone: (425) 257-8560
Everett Building Codes
Contact for coop restrictions and building guidelines:
Phone: (425) 257-8810
City of Everett Municipal Code
Refer to MC 6.04.04 for details on small livestock, including chickens:
Link for More Information: Everett Municipal Code
Links for Further Information
For those seeking detailed guidelines on keeping chickens and related zoning regulations:
Washington State Department of Health – Backyard Poultry:
https://www.doh.wa.gov/YouandYourFamily/IllnessandDisease/AnimalTransmittedDiseases/BackyardPoultryBackYard Chickens – Everett Washington Chicken Ordinance:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/category/everett-washington-chicken-ordinance.478/
Residents are encouraged to contact city representatives and review the provided resources for comprehensive understanding of local regulations and best practices for keeping backyard chickens in Everett.
