Raising Backyard Chickens in Lakewood, WA
A Beginner’s Guide to Urban Poultry
Raising backyard chickens has become an increasingly popular practice among residents in Lakewood, Washington, offering a sustainable source of fresh eggs, natural pest control, and an engaging way to teach responsibility and animal care to family members. The city has established specific ordinances to ensure that the keeping of chickens is both responsible and respectful to the community, including stipulations on the minimum distance that coops should be from property lines and the maximum number of birds allowed per acre. This ensures that while residents can enjoy the benefits of fresh poultry products, the potential for noise, odor, and property disputes is minimized.
Individuals in Lakewood must adhere to the local ordinance which requires a ten-foot setback for all chicken hutches from property lines and a more spacious twenty-foot setback for chicken coops, aviaries, and similar enclosures, including free-range areas. Notably, the city allows residents to keep no more than sixteen poultry birds per acre. Additionally, for avian health and welfare, the design of aviaries or lofts must provide adequate space for the well-being of the birds.
Although the keeping of poultry encourages a closer connection to food sources and can be a delightful hobby, it comes with the responsibility of understanding and complying with local regulations to maintain harmony within the community. Health measures are equally important, and residents are encouraged to stay informed about best practices for the care of their flocks and be vigilant about reporting health issues. Adherence to these rules ensures that enthusiasts can responsibly enjoy the many benefits of raising backyard chickens in Lakewood.
Understanding Local Ordinances
To successfully raise backyard chickens in Lakewood, WA, residents must navigate specific local ordinances that govern the practice, ensuring they remain compliant with both city and state regulations regarding zoning, property restrictions, and permits.
Zoning and Property Restrictions
The City of Lakewood requires that all poultry enclosures, including hutches and coops, maintain a minimum setback of 10 feet from all property lines, and 20 feet for pens and free-range areas. Residential zones permit the raising and keeping of chickens, but it is essential to adhere to noncommercial use. In terms of limits, no more than 16 poultry are allowed per acre to ensure control and manageability.
Setback for hutches: 10 feet from property lines
Setback for pens: 20 feet from property lines
Maximum poultry: 16 per acre
The backyard chicken ordinance falls under Pierce County and Washington State jurisdiction, where local chicken laws may vary but typically reflect a consideration for residential comfort and welfare.
Permits and Legal Requirements
In Lakewood, WA, individuals do not require a permit to keep backyard chickens, provided they meet the specified conditions of the chicken ordinance. However, residents must be aware that the Lakewood Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 796, with legislation passed through December 4, 2023.
For the most up-to-date information or for specific inquiries, residents should contact the Lakewood City offices or review the municipal code. It is crucial to confirm the latest requirements as these can evolve, impacting the legality of raising chickens in your backyard.
Permit required: No, if conditions are met
Information last updated: December 4, 2023
City/Organization contact name: Lakewood City Offices
Link for more information: Lakewood Municipal Code
By keeping abreast of the local ordinances and legal requirements, residents of Lakewood can enjoy the benefits of raising backyard chickens while adhering to the community standards and regulations.
Selecting Your Chickens
When embarking on raising backyard chickens in Lakewood, WA, potential poultry keepers must make informed decisions about the breeds they select and the size of their flock to ensure they comply with local regulations and meet their personal goals, whether for egg production, meat, or as pets.
Breed Considerations
The choice of chicken breed should be dictated by an individual's requirements for egg production, meat yield, or a balance of both. Egg laying breeds like the Leghorn or Rhode Island Red are known for their consistent and high volume of egg production. In contrast, meat breeds, which include the Cornish Cross, are raised primarily for their substantial meat yield. For those looking for versatility, dual-purpose breeds such as the Plymouth Rock and Sussex offer a moderate balance of egg-laying efficiency and meat quality.
When choosing breeds, one should also account for the local climate, as some breeds are more suited to the weather conditions in Washington State. Certain breeds, like the Wyandotte or the Orpington, are known for their hardiness in colder climates.
Determining Flock Size
Restrictions in Lakewood, WA, stipulate that no more than sixteen (16) poultry are permitted per acre. Within this framework, the ideal number of chickens depends on the available space, the production desired, and the capacity for care. New owners often begin with pullets or young hens, which start laying eggs at about 5-6 months of age. Considering space constraints and the need for rotational grazing to maintain a healthy environment, keeping fewer than the maximum allowed number of chickens is often advisable.
When starting with chicks, it's important to remember that they require a significant investment of time and resources to reach maturity. The setup must include a brooder with controlled heat to nurture chicks until they're ready to join the flock outdoors.
Incorporating these specific considerations, Lakewood, WA residents can select the most appropriate chickens for their backyard setting, ensuring health and productivity in their flock.
Designing Your Chicken Coop
Creating a chicken coop in Lakewood that is comfortable, secure, and within the constraints of local ordinances is essential for the welfare of the backyard chickens and compliance with the law.
Space and Comfort
The space available within a chicken coop directly impacts the well-being and productivity of the chickens. In Lakewood, coop designs must take into account specific space requirements:
Minimum Square Footage: Each chicken should have at least 4 square feet of space inside the coop to ensure they can move freely without stress.
Nesting Boxes: Incorporate at least one nesting box for every three to four hens, which should be comfortable and secluded to promote egg laying.
A coop and run layout must also be planned with ample space for chickens to engage in natural behaviors. For every chicken, there should be a roosting pole, as they prefer to sleep perched off the ground.
Protection and Security
Chickens require protection from predators and extreme weather. The design elements for security include:
Sturdy Walls and Roof: To safeguard against predators and provide shelter from the elements.
Secure Latches: Use latches that are raccoon-proof and check integrity regularly.
Wire Mesh: Bury a wire mesh skirt around the run to deter digging animals.
Coop restrictions in the area dictate a minimum setback of 10 feet from all property lines for hutches, which increases to 20 feet for larger enclosures. Ensuring that the coop is not just secure, but also compliant, is critical in Lakewood.
Daily Care and Maintenance
Raising chickens in Lakewood, WA requires consistent care to ensure the health and productivity of the flock. Proper feeding and vigilant health maintenance are critical for fresh egg production and disease prevention.
Feeding and Nutrition
Chickens require a balanced diet to maintain their health and to produce high-quality eggs. The diet should include:
Grains and Seeds: The mainstay of chicken feed, providing essential energy.
Protein: Necessary for growth and egg production, usually from commercial feed or supplemental sources like mealworms.
Greens: Chickens enjoy foraging for fresh grass and weeds which offer additional nutrients.
Calcium: Vital for strong eggshells, typically from oyster shells or eggshell supplements.
A structured feeding routine helps hens maintain a regular laying schedule. Fresh water must be available at all times, as it is crucial for their digestion and overall health.
Health and Wellness
Monitoring the health of backyard chickens is paramount to prevent the spread of disease and to ensure the wellbeing of the flock. Regular health checks include:
Observation: Watch for signs of distress or unusual behavior that could indicate illness.
Cleanliness: A clean coop reduces the risk of disease and pest infestations. Nesting boxes and roosting areas should be kept tidy.
Space: Adequate space is important to prevent stress and aggression. Lakewood regulations mandate minimum space requirements for enclosures.
Veterinary Care: Establish a relationship with a local vet familiar with poultry to manage health issues promptly.
Maintaining the health of chickens in Lakewood not only abides by local ordinances but also promotes longevity and productivity within the flock.
Managing Chicken Behavior
Raising chickens requires an understanding of their behavioral patterns and social structures to create a harmonious backyard flock. Proper management can mitigate common issues such as noise and odor, ensuring a positive experience for both the chickens and the neighboring community.
Social Dynamics
Chickens establish a pecking order that dictates the hierarchy within a flock. Roosters often assume the role of protectors and may assert dominance, particularly in the presence of hens. Fostering a stable social environment involves spacing considerations, as competition for resources can lead to stress and aggression. It is essential to provide ample space, perches, and nesting sites to accommodate the social behaviors and needs of each chicken.
Handling Noise and Odor
Noise is an inherent aspect of chicken behavior, especially with roosters, known for their crowing. While it is natural for roosters to crow, residents in Lakewood, WA must be mindful of their neighbors and consider local noise ordinances. Implementing strategies like providing distractions or utilizing soundproofing methods can help manage noise levels.
Managing odor is crucial in maintaining a healthy and pleasant environment. Regular cleaning of the coop and proper waste disposal are key actions. One should manage bedding materials effectively, ensuring that they are dry and clean to minimize odor. Well-ventilated coops help dissipate odors and reduce moisture accumulation, which can also curb the proliferation of parasites and disease.
Breeding and Hatching
Breeding and hatching backyard chickens in Lakewood, WA, involves a meticulous incubation procedure followed by the attentive care of raising chicks.
Incubation Process
To commence hatching eggs, one must ensure a controlled environment suitable for incubation. A reliable incubator will regulate temperature and humidity — key parameters which should be consistently maintained at approximately 99.5°F and between 55-65% relative humidity. Eggs must be turned three to five times daily until three days before they're due to hatch to prevent the embryo from sticking to the shell.
Raising Chicks
Once the chicks hatch, they require immediate care. Initially, they should be kept in a brooder with temperatures starting at around 95°F, reducing by 5°F each week until they reach ambient temperature. Chicks need starter feed with 18-20% protein and access to clean water. Observing the chicks’ behavior is crucial for adjustments; if they're huddled under the heat source, they may be cold, while if they're scattered away from it, they may be too hot.
Local Resources and Support
Those interested in raising backyard chickens in Lakewood, WA, benefit from a network of local resources and support. Lakewood residents have access to clear guidelines provided by city ordinances, community engagement through groups and forums, as well as a variety of suppliers and services tailored to poultry care in both suburban and urban settings.
Community Groups
Backyard chicken raisers in Lakewood and nearby Pierce County areas may join the BackYard Chickens community, a platform where they can connect with local poultry enthusiasts. The BackYard Chickens forum frequently features discussions specific to Lakewood, offering a place for residents to share advice and experiences. For more urban-focused poultry raising, city-based groups can offer support tailored to raising chickens in smaller spaces.
Local Forums: BackYard Chickens - Lakewood specific threads
Urban Poultry Networks: Urban-focused chicken raising groups in Pierce County
Suppliers and Services
Whether residing in suburban areas of Lakewood or the more urbanized parts of Pierce County, chicken enthusiasts have ample choices for supplies and services. Local feed stores supply a range of products from feed to coop supplies. For veterinary care or health-related concerns, the Washington State Department of Agriculture's (WSDA) Avian Health Program can be a valuable contact. Additionally, local farms often sell pastured chickens and eggs, which can be an excellent resource for those starting a flock.
Feed Stores: A list of local feed stores in Lakewood and surrounding areas
Feed & Coop Supplies: [Lakewood Feed Store], [Pierce County Farm Supply]
Veterinary Services and Health Support: Names and contact information for avian vets and health programs
WSDA Avian Health Program: 1-800-606-3056
Local Farms: Directory of farms offering chickens, eggs, and related products
Pastured Poultry: [Osprey Hill Farm], [LocalHarvest Partners]
Additional Types of Poultry
When exploring the realm of backyard poultry beyond chickens in Lakewood, WA, it's essential to consider the needs and regulations specific to other types of birds. Ducks and geese, as well as other fowl such as turkeys, peacocks, pigeons, and flightless birds like ostriches and emus, all have unique requirements.
Ducks and Geese
Ducks are known for their hardiness and ease in adapting to various climates. They require access to water for hygiene and health, and will typically need more space than chickens. A secure pen is crucial to protect ducks from predators. Geese, on the other hand, are larger and known for their vigilant behavior, often used as a deterrent for unwelcome visitors. They are also grazers and can help with lawn maintenance.
Space Requirements: Ducks and geese need ample space to roam and access to water where they can swim and clean themselves.
Shelter Needs: Robust shelters are necessary to protect them from the elements and predators.
Egg Production: Ducks are prolific layers, producing eggs more consistently throughout the year compared to chickens.
Other Fowl
Turkeys require more space due to their size and are more seasonal in their laying patterns. They are social creatures and benefit from being raised in small flocks. Peacocks are ornamental birds with vivid plumage and can be quite loud, which might be a consideration for urban areas. Pigeons are smaller and can be housed in lofts, making them suitable for smaller spaces, while rabbits, although not fowl, can be kept with similar housing requirements to chickens.
In contrast, ostriches and emus are large flightless birds that need significant land—far more than traditional backyard poultry—and specialized fencing to maintain.
Fowl Shelter Space Needed Water Access Turkeys Robust, draft-free coop Large pen Yes Peacocks Secure roosting area Medium to large pen No Pigeons Lofts or cages Minimal Yes Ostriches (What wine goes well with ostrich?) Secure fencing Extensive acreage Yes Emus High fencing Large pasture Yes
Careful consideration of local regulations and potential neighbors' concerns is imperative when keeping any type of backyard poultry.
Sustainability Practices
In Lakewood, WA, raising backyard chickens is intertwined with sustainability practices that contribute to environmental stewardship and comply with local regulations.
Eco-Friendly Approaches
Urban chicken farming in Lakewood emphasizes waste reduction, one of the key facets of eco-friendly approaches. Homeowners who raise chickens have the unique opportunity to use kitchen scraps as feed, transforming potential landfill waste into a resource. In terms of livestock management, chickens serve a dual purpose by providing eggs and acting as live composting systems. To ensure sustainability, the Lakewood ordinance stipulates a maximum of sixteen animals per acre, which helps in maintaining a balance between the animals and the space available to them, preventing overstocking and promoting animal welfare.
Proper Housing: Residential areas are required to have
Hutches: 10 feet minimum setback from property lines
Pens/Enclosures: 20 feet setback
This ensures sufficient free-range areas and promotes animal well-being.
Benefiting the Ecosystem
Chickens in backyard settings can play a substantial role in aiding the local ecosystem. They naturally control pests, decreasing the need for chemical pesticides, and they contribute to soil health through their droppings, which can be used as a nutrient-rich fertilizer. This cycle enhances garden productivity and maintains an ecological balance. Chickens are considered an accessory use to residential properties in Lakewood, reinforcing their role in sustainable urban agriculture by aiding in waste management and providing fresh produce in the form of eggs.
Ecosystem Services: Through daily activities, chickens contribute by:
Pest Control: Naturally reducing garden pests
Soil Enhancement: Improving soil with manure
By considering the local ordinances and integrating these practices, Lakewood residents ensure their backyard chickens support a sustainable lifestyle.
Community Integration
Raising backyard chickens in Lakewood, Washington, involves careful consideration of community norms and local regulations. Successful integration of backyard chicken farming into a community requires effective communication with neighbors and the exploration of educational opportunities to foster understanding and cooperation.
Engaging with Neighbors
Homeowners considering backyard chickens should initiate open dialogues with their neighbors. Important talking points include:
Setback Requirements: Inform neighbors that chicken enclosures must maintain a setback of 10 feet from property lines.
Noise and Odor Management: Outline how issues regarding potential noise and odor will be addressed to ensure minimal impact.
Consent for Larger Flocks: For those wishing to expand their flock, obtaining written consent from neighbors within 50 feet is necessary.
The goal of these conversations is to address concerns proactively and to integrate chickens into the community in a manner that is respectful and considerate of all residents.
Educational Opportunities
Educational initiatives create a platform for community members to learn about the benefits and responsibilities of raising backyard chickens.
Possible educational sessions could include:
Benefits of Backyard Chickens: Discussion on how chickens contribute to sustainable living by reducing reliance on factory farming.
Best Practices: Workshops on proper chicken care, coop maintenance, and health management to ensure a positive experience for both the chickens and the community.
Leveraging these educational avenues helps build a well-informed community that understands the value and implications of backyard chicken farming.
