Chandler puts chicken issue on pause

May 24, 2013

Chandler has put off deciding whether to allow chickens within city limits. The city council decided more time was needed for city staff to do research on the urban chicken question.

chickens Chandler chicken lovers will have to wait and see whether the city will permit the birds. A proposed ordinance that would allow up to five hens at single-family dwellings will be revisted at the city council's July meeting. (Photo by Stina Sieg - KJZZ)

Permits might be added to the proposed chicken ordinance when the council takes it up again July 11. The council voted 4-3 on Thursday to continue the issue, which has become a contentious topic in the city.

Chicken fans say the birds provide eggs, pest control and fertilization for urban gardens – and are overall friendly animals.

Chicken opponents worry about disease, noise, smell – and the image of city. Chandler is one of the last major cities in the Valley to address the backyard chicken issue.

Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe are among those that already allow chickens.