Some sought permits for each family member

When the Fremont Village Board voted late last year to allow chickens in the village, the intent was to allow four chickens per residence.

However, the ordinance stated a person may keep up to four chickens.

As a result, some families requested permits for for each member of their families, including for their young children.

Under their impressions, they could have up to four chickens for each member of their family.

When the village board met on April 12, it clarified the ordinance with an amendment that changed references to the word “person” to the word “residence.”

Village President Dan Sambs said the original intent of the ordinance was to allow a maximum of four chickens per residence.

Under the ordinance, chickens are allowed in residential districts of the village.

The principal use of the property has to be a single family dwelling, and roosters are not allowed.

There has to be a shelter for the chickens, with a minimum of three square feet per chicken.

A fenced-in place for the chickens to run must also be provided, with a minimum of five square feet per chicken.

All chicken coops and pen areas must be set back at least 10 feet from side and rear property lines and at least 25 feet from adjacent principal residential structures.

Chickens may not be slaughtered in the village.

An annual $25 permit is required for the keeping of chickens.