Champaign Co. Moves to Ban Backyard Barns

In Champaign County, Illinois (WCIA), residents attempting to keep livestock at their homes has faced opposition. As a result, the county is now working on regulations that would restrict which kinds of animals can be kept on residential properties.

The proposal permits up to six hens or guinea fowl, along with either three ducks, geese, turkeys, or rabbits. Additionally, twelve pigeons are permitted as well. However, you cannot keep all these types together simultaneously.

Champaign and Urbana will take part in Bike and Roll to School Day.

The minimum threshold is set at six hens or three of the aforementioned poultry species. Feel free to combine them as desired.

John Hall, the county’s Director of Planning and Zoning, stated that this new ordinance follows a situation from the previous year where a household was found keeping pigs along with over 40 chickens on their property.

Neighbors weren't too pleased with what was happening," Hall stated. "The older members went to check out the properties firsthand and concluded, 'This isn't right; folks in a residential zone shouldn't have this kind of establishment as their neighbor.'

Should it be approved, this regulation would affect residential plots located within 1,000 feet of the boundaries of Champaign. The proposal is scheduled for discussion at the upcoming zoning board of appeals gathering. Hall mentioned that following this presentation, several months will elapse before it can potentially become law.

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