Are Chickens Allowed in Des Plaines, Illinois?

BySusan Medlin

Des Plaines, Illinois, a vibrant suburban city located just outside of Chicago, offers a blend of residential, commercial, and natural spaces. As interest in sustainability and urban farming grows, many Des Plaines residents are curious about the possibility of raising chickens in their backyards. Chickens can provide fresh eggs, natural pest control, and a greater connection to food production. However, as with any city, raising chickens comes with a set of rules and regulations designed to ensure the well-being of both the animals and the surrounding community. In this article, we will explore whether chickens are allowed in Des Plaines, Illinois, the city’s regulations on backyard chickens, and other important considerations for potential chicken keepers in the area.

Regulations for Raising Chickens in Des Plaines

Des Plaines, like many suburban communities, has zoning regulations that govern the keeping of chickens. The city allows residents to raise chickens in certain residential areas, but there are specific requirements that must be met to ensure the chickens do not cause any disturbances or health risks to the surrounding neighborhood. These regulations are designed to allow urban farming while maintaining public health, safety, and community harmony.

Are Chickens Allowed in Des Plaines?

Yes, chickens are allowed in Des Plaines, but the city has specific regulations that must be followed. The Des Plaines Municipal Code outlines the rules for keeping chickens in residential areas, including limits on the number of chickens, where they can be kept, and how their waste should be managed. The city has implemented these regulations to balance the growing interest in urban farming with the desire to maintain a peaceful, safe, and healthy community.

Number of Chickens Allowed

In Des Plaines, residents are allowed to keep chickens, but there are restrictions on the number of chickens that can be kept on a property. The general rule is that you can keep up to four chickens (hens only, not roosters) in a residential zoning district. This limit is designed to keep the chickens in manageable numbers, ensuring that they can be properly cared for without negatively impacting the neighborhood. The city wants to avoid overcrowding, which could lead to issues such as excessive noise, waste accumulation, and health concerns.

Although the limit of four chickens is generally sufficient for most backyard chicken keepers, it is important to check with the city for specific exceptions or if you are planning to keep more than the allowed number. In some cases, residents with larger properties may be able to apply for a special permit to keep more chickens, although the regulations are typically strict regarding the number allowed in residential zones.

Roosters Are Prohibited

In Des Plaines, as in many other cities, roosters are prohibited in residential areas. The primary reason for this restriction is noise. Roosters are known for their loud crowing, which can be particularly disruptive in suburban neighborhoods, especially early in the morning. Since roosters can be loud and active throughout the day, they are not allowed in residential areas, as their noise can disturb neighbors and disrupt the peace of the community.

If you plan to raise chickens in Des Plaines, it is important to ensure that your flock consists of hens only. Hens generally do not make as much noise as roosters, and their clucking is typically not disruptive. However, if you do accidentally acquire a rooster, the city may require it to be removed from the property.

Coop and Enclosure Requirements

Des Plaines has specific guidelines for the construction and maintenance of chicken coops and enclosures. These guidelines are designed to ensure that the chickens are kept in a safe, healthy, and humane environment. The city’s requirements also help to minimize the impact of chickens on neighboring properties. Below are the key requirements for chicken coops and enclosures in Des Plaines:

  • Coop Size: The chicken coop must provide enough space for the chickens to move around comfortably. The general rule of thumb is that each chicken should have at least 2 square feet inside the coop and at least 8 square feet of outdoor run space. This ensures the chickens have room to exercise, lay eggs, and behave naturally.
  • Setback Requirements: The chicken coop must be located a certain distance from property lines and neighboring homes. In Des Plaines, the coop and run should be set back at least 5 feet from side and rear property lines and at least 25 feet from neighboring homes. This setback helps to reduce the impact of noise, odors, and waste on nearby residents and ensures that chickens are kept in an appropriate location on the property.
  • Protection from Predators: The chicken coop and run must be secure enough to protect the chickens from predators such as raccoons, coyotes, and neighborhood dogs. The coop should be made from strong materials like galvanized wire or hardware cloth, and the run should be fully enclosed, including a secure roof to protect the chickens from aerial predators.
  • Proper Ventilation: The chicken coop must have proper ventilation to ensure good air quality inside. Ammonia and other harmful gases can build up in the coop if it is not adequately ventilated, which can be harmful to the chickens’ health. Ventilation also helps to keep the coop dry, reducing the risk of respiratory issues and mold growth.

Waste Management and Sanitation

Proper waste management is crucial when raising chickens, especially in residential areas. Chicken manure can accumulate quickly and, if not managed properly, can lead to strong odors, pest infestations, and unsanitary conditions. Des Plaines requires chicken owners to follow certain guidelines for cleaning their coops and managing waste. Here are some best practices for waste management in Des Plaines:

  • Regular Cleaning: The chicken coop must be cleaned regularly to remove manure, bedding, and uneaten food. Regular cleaning helps to maintain a hygienic environment for the chickens and reduces odors. It is important to remove waste at least once a week to ensure the chickens’ living space remains clean and comfortable.
  • Composting: Chicken manure is a rich source of nitrogen and can be composted for use as fertilizer in gardens. Properly composted chicken waste is an environmentally friendly way to manage waste, as it breaks down into valuable nutrients for plants. However, it is essential to manage the composting process to avoid attracting pests or creating unpleasant odors.
  • Proper Disposal: If composting is not an option, chicken waste must be disposed of in a sanitary manner. Des Plaines encourages residents to dispose of chicken waste in biodegradable bags or other eco-friendly methods. Waste should never be dumped in regular trash bins without proper containment, as this can attract pests and lead to unpleasant conditions.

Health and Safety Considerations

Keeping chickens in Des Plaines requires careful attention to both the health of the chickens and the safety of the surrounding community. By following the city’s regulations and maintaining good animal care practices, chicken owners can help ensure that their flock remains healthy and productive. Below are some key health and safety considerations when raising chickens in Des Plaines:

Health Care for Chickens

Chickens, like any other animals, require regular health care to ensure they stay free from diseases and parasites. Some common health issues in chickens include respiratory infections, mites, lice, and egg-laying problems. It is essential to monitor the chickens regularly for any signs of illness, such as:

  • A sudden decrease in egg production
  • Behavioral changes, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or unusual aggression
  • Respiratory distress, such as coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge
  • Physical changes, such as feather loss or abnormal comb color

If any of these symptoms are noticed, it is important to seek advice from a veterinarian who specializes in poultry. Regular health checks, vaccinations, and parasite control can help prevent the spread of diseases and ensure that the chickens remain healthy.

Protection from Predators

Chickens are vulnerable to a range of predators, including raccoons, foxes, neighborhood dogs, and birds of prey. To keep chickens safe, their coop and run must be secure and predator-proof. Chicken owners should use strong materials for the coop, check for any weaknesses in the structure regularly, and ensure that all doors and openings are locked securely. The run should also be fully enclosed, including the roof, to prevent predators from entering from above.

Noise and Odor Control

Although hens are quieter than roosters, they still produce some noise, particularly when they are startled or when they are laying eggs. Proper placement of the chicken coop can help minimize noise, and regular cleaning and waste management practices can reduce odors. If chickens are kept in accordance with the city’s requirements and the coop is well-maintained, noise and odor should not become significant problems.

Permits and Licensing

In Des Plaines, you do not need a special permit to keep chickens as long as you comply with the city’s zoning laws and regulations. However, if you want to keep more than the permitted number of chickens or if your property does not meet the necessary zoning criteria, you may need to apply for a special use permit or zoning variance. The application process typically involves submitting a request to the city’s Zoning Department, including information about your property, the location of the chicken coop, and how you plan to manage waste and provide proper care for the chickens.

Before raising chickens in Des Plaines, it’s always a good idea to check with the city’s Zoning Department or Animal Control Division to ensure that you are in compliance with all regulations. The city’s staff can help clarify any questions or concerns and guide you through the application process if necessary.

Benefits of Raising Chickens in Des Plaines

Despite the regulations, there are many benefits to raising chickens in Des Plaines. Some of the key advantages of keeping chickens include:

  • Fresh, Local Eggs: The most obvious benefit of keeping chickens is the ability to enjoy fresh, homegrown eggs. Backyard eggs are often more nutritious and flavorful than store-bought eggs, and you can rest assured that the chickens are raised without hormones or antibiotics.
  • Pest Control: Chickens are natural foragers, and they will help keep your yard free of pests such as insects, ticks, and small rodents. This reduces the need for chemical pesticides and herbicides in your garden.
  • Composting and Fertilizer: Chicken manure is a valuable source of fertilizer. Properly composted chicken waste enriches soil and improves plant growth, making your garden more sustainable and productive.
  • Educational Opportunities: Raising chickens provides an excellent educational opportunity for children, teaching them about responsibility, animal care, and where their food comes from. It also helps foster an understanding of sustainable living practices.

Challenges of Raising Chickens in Des Plaines

While raising chickens can be rewarding, there are challenges that need to be considered. These include managing waste, ensuring that the chickens are protected from predators, minimizing noise and odor, and complying with local regulations. However, with the right planning, care, and attention to the city’s rules, these challenges can be overcome.

Conclusion

Raising chickens in Des Plaines, Illinois, is allowed under specific conditions set forth by the city’s zoning ordinances and animal control regulations. By following the guidelines on the number of chickens, coop requirements, waste management, and the prohibition on roosters, residents can enjoy the benefits of fresh eggs, natural pest control, and sustainable living. Raising chickens in Des Plaines can be a rewarding experience if done responsibly and with respect for the community and local wildlife. As long as the proper regulations are followed, chickens can be a great addition to any household in Des Plaines.