Collingswood moves closer to allowing backyard chickens in residential areas.

During a recent meeting, the Collingswood Borough Commission took a significant step towards potentially allowing residents to keep backyard hens, a move that follows 18 years of advocacy from local supporters. The proposed amendment seeks to reverse a ban enacted in 2008, which prohibited the keeping of chickens within the borough. Mayor Daniela Solano-Ward and Commissioner Amy Henderson Riley, both newly elected in May, expressed their strong support for the initiative during the session.

The mayor emphasized that 19 neighboring towns in Camden County have successfully permitted the keeping of backyard hens, experiencing minimal issues. If the ordinance proceeds as expected, it will be brought to a vote next month, which advocates hope will lead to formal approval. The current proposal does not require notifying neighboring residents about new chicken coops; however, it does involve several stipulations aimed at ensuring neighborhood harmony.

Under the new regulations, the borough plans to issue a limited number of 30 permits, thereby restricting the number of resident-owned hens across the estimated 6,500 households in the community. The specific number of hens permissible on each property will be contingent on the size of the lot, with zoning regulations dictating those limits. For instance, properties with less than 4,000 square feet will not be allowed to keep hens, while those measuring 9,000 square feet or larger may house up to 12 birds.

The proposal outlines structural requirements for hen coops, including their proximity to property lines. Additionally, it explicitly prohibits the sale of eggs and the slaughtering of chickens. A resident-led Backyard Hen Advisory Board will oversee the implementation of the program, providing guidance on complaints and compliance. Noncompliance with the established regulations may lead to substantial penalties, including fines reaching ,250 or potential imprisonment for up to 90 days.

Despite strong support for the initiative, some resident concerns linger regarding potential health risks and environmental impacts associated with backyard hens. One Collingswood resident raised questions surrounding the oversight and management of chicken-related waste, emphasizing the importance of maintaining community health standards.

Advocates believe that the successful implementation of a hen program could foster a sense of community while teaching residents, especially children, valuable lessons about responsibility and food sourcing. Should the ordinance pass, Collingswood would join a growing trend in urban agriculture, reflecting a broader acceptance and appreciation for local food practices.

As the borough prepares to make its decision, ongoing discussions will likely shape the final form of the backyard hen regulations to ensure both compliance and community satisfaction. The anticipated vote in October will be a critical moment for the future of backyard hens in Collingswood, aligning local policy with the evolving interests of its residents.

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