Chicken Chat-Don't County Your Chickens Before they Hatch

Backyard flocks have become popular in the suburban set.  More people are interested in producing their own food and so to many, some chickens in the backyard seem like an easy way to add a little protein to the mix.  Before you get started raising a backyard flock, make sure you are familiar with Paulding County ordinances.  If you live in residentially zoned area, the ordinances state (p. 45 of Zoning regulations:http://www.paulding.gov/DocumentCenter/Home/View/525):

(h) Agricultural facilities such as chicken houses, swine enclosures, dairy barns, stables, corrals, or other facilities used to house livestock, horses, non-domestic animals (excluding wild and exotic animals), poultry, or odor producing agricultural uses shall be located no less than 200 feet from the side and rear property lines and 300 feet from the front property line. Fences for horses and cows are excluded from these setbacks, but are recommended to be setback off the property line by a minimum of three (3) inches.

(i) Agriculture, farming, and forestry activities; livestock, poultry production, and horses provided that all animals except those generally recognized as household pets are kept in a structure, pen, or corral and not permitted to roam at large. Structures, pens, fences, and corrals must meet setbacks as specified in (h) above. 

If you live in an area that meets these criteria, and are considering raising a small flock, there are many things you should know.  You can learn more about raising back yard flocks from this article by Judy Ashley.  You can also tune in to an online webinar hosted by the USDA and featuring experts, including the "Chicken Whisperer," Andy Schneider, on February 28th at 2 pm.  Pre-register at file Healthychickens.webex.com