What Would Take For Chickens To Be Allowed In Bismarck?

Is It About Time For Chickens To Be Allowed In Bismarck?

In many parts of the United States, raising backyard chickens has become a popular practice for sustainable living. I live south of Lincoln, North Dakota where in my development, there are several residents who have backyard chickens, including my next-door neighbor.

Not only do they have chickens, they also have ducks. I know what you're thinking. It must be noisy and stinky.  I can honestly say, that couldn't be further from the truth. His pen is always well-kept, and it's even very decorative. I've also reaped the benefits from my neighbor's flock with the occasional gift of fresh eggs.

I also used to raise captive-reared waterfowl myself at my previous home.  Believe me, I know birds are a lot of work to raise and keep as pets. If you get the wrong person doing it, yes, you could have a very stinky and unsightly situation.  However, it's also a very rewarding hobby too.  It's no different with dog or cat owners (there are plenty of people who shouldn't be doing that either).

(SEE ALSO: Here's a GALLERY-PHOTOS and a look at my backyard ducks that I used to own.)

According to KVRR TV in Fargo, the West Fargo City Commission just voted to allow up to 6 backyard chickens with an annual permit.  They will join the city of Fargo which also allows chickens.

Bismarck's sister city of Mandan has allowed backyard chickens now for close to 5 years.

As somebody who works in Mandan, I sure haven't heard about any major issues with the new ordinance.  I'm sure there are a few bad apples (or chicken owners) out there but you sure don't hear much about them.  For the most part, I would say it's been a positive situation.

So, what would it take for Bismarck to join the ranks of other cities around the state and allow backyard chickens?

I sat down with former Bismarck Mayor Steve Bakken who explained to me it's a two-step process if Bismarck residents ever hope to own backyard chickens (he's very much against it by the way).

First, you would need to petition the Planning & Zoning Commission and make your case.  The staff will vet your request and then vote on it.  If your request to add backyard chickens were to pass the Planning & Zoning Commission it would then move to the City Commission.

At this point, they would likely call a public hearing where the residents of Bismarck would give their input, before voting on a new potential ordinance themselves.

Now, if your request for backyard chickens did not pass with the Planning & Zoning Commission, you could go directly to the City Commission and ask them to overturn their decision.

Plenty of red tape to cut, but if you want fresh eggs and a taste of the country lifestyle in your backyard, this is what it will take to make it happen.

I for one am for less government (city) regulations and the freedom to take on such a venture if a resident wanted to try backyard chickens.