On June 14, 2010, the Mankato City Council held a public hearing, whereafter they voted 5–2 to approve an ordinance (link) to allow urban hens to be kept in Mankato.

The primary differences between the ordinance that was passed and the one proposed previously are that

1. the ordinance passed on June 14 limits licenses to three (3) licenses in the City,
2. the ordinance "sunsets" (expires) after two years, at which time it would have to be reconsidered by the Council, and
3. the ordinance includes an arguably onerous amendment tacked on by Councilman Mark Frost (without the opportunity for public comment) that requires 100% neighbor consent for adjoining properties and 75% consent from neighbors within 300 feet. (Yes, you read that right: a 300-foot radius, a football field in every direction from one's property!)

Highlights of the ordinance:

• Permits allow for the keeping of up to five hen chickens.
• Roosters are prohibited.
• The slaughtering of chickens is prohibited.
• Any chickens found to be loose (running at large) may be impounded by City staff.
• One permit is allowed per rental property with written consent from the property owner.
• Chickens must be confined within a coop or run at all times.
• Chicken coops and runs must be located within the rear yard and be at least 25 feet from any dwelling on adjacent properties and screened with a solid fence at least four feet in height.
• Chicken coops must not exceed 10 square feet per chicken.
• Chicken runs must not exceed 20 square feet per chicken.
• Coops are not allowed in homes or garages.
• Manure must be stored in rodent- and raccoon-proof containers and be removed to not allow accumulation, unsanitary conditions, or odors.
• Feed must be stored in rodent- and raccoon-proof containers.

How can you help now that the temporary ordinance has passed? You've taken a great first step by visiting this site. Please read the information presented here and enable yourself to develop an informed opinion on the issue. If you're not happy with the restrictions in the ordinance (for example, the requirement for neighbor consent), you can contact your City Council representative and make your voice heard. Spread the word to your friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues in Mankato. Share this website. Encourage others to learn the facts about urban hens. Most of all, be sure the opinion you form — whatever that may be — is based on facts and not fear.

Calendar of Events

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Event	Resources
Backyard Hens: The Basics June 6, 2010 • Mankato Elks Nature Center (map)	Presentation (PDF) KEYC News coverage
Mankato City Council Meeting June 14, 2010 • Mankato Intergovernmental Center (map)	Meeting Packet (PDF)