Ordinance Rules for Owning Chickens in Moline IL

Urban Hen License

According to Section 7-1104A of the Moline Code of Ordinances, individuals wishing to keep hens (female chickens) must obtain a valid urban hen license. The license is subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this section and any additional conditions deemed necessary by the City Council to protect public health, safety, and welfare.

The license application requires the following information:

• Applicant’s name, address, telephone number, and email address (if applicable)
• Number of hens to be kept on the premises
• Signature certifying the validity of the information provided and agreement to comply with all provisions of the ordinance

The annual license fee is $25.00, and the license expires on July 31 of each year. Renewal is required before August 1 to continue keeping hens legally within the city limits.

Requirements for Keeping Hens

To qualify for an urban hen license, the following conditions must be met:

• The premises must be zoned as a one-family detached dwelling.
• The applicant must have successfully completed an approved class in raising hens in an urban setting. The City maintains a current list of such approved classes.
• Any judgments in the City’s favor and against the property owner must be paid in full. If the applicant is a tenant or leaseholder, any judgments against the applicant must also be paid in full.

Regulations for Hen Enclosures

Hen enclosures must adhere to the following standards:

• Provide a minimum of four square feet per hen.
• Be constructed of wood or similar materials and enclosed on all sides with a roof, door(s), and secure latching mechanisms.
• Include predator/bird-proof wire with openings no larger than one inch for any doors or windows.
• Provide adequate ventilation and protection from the elements.
• Contain an independent electric/heat source without the use of extension cords.
• Be resistant to rodents and predators, including dogs and cats.

The enclosure must be located in the rear yard of the premises, with a minimum setback of five feet from property lines and 25 feet from any residential dwelling, church, school, or place of business.

Prohibited Practices

The following practices are prohibited under the urban hen ordinance:

• Keeping roosters within the city limits.
• Slaughtering hens within the city limits.
• Allowing hens to roam off the licensed premises.
• Keeping hens inside a one-family detached dwelling unit, multi-family dwelling unit(s), or rental unit.
• Keeping hens on a vacant or uninhabited property.

Enforcement and Penalties

Failure to comply with the provisions of the urban hen ordinance may result in the denial, suspension, revocation, or non-renewal of the urban hen license. Additionally, violations may be subject to penalties as provided in Section 1-1107 of the Moline Code of Ordinances.

Application Process

To apply for an urban hen license, complete the application form provided by the City’s Accounts and Finance Officer or their designee. Submit the completed application along with the $25.00 fee to the Finance Department at:

For more information or to obtain the application form, contact the Finance Department at 309-524-2070.

Conclusion

By adhering to the requirements set forth in the urban hen ordinance, residents of Moline can responsibly enjoy the benefits of keeping hens, such as fresh eggs and educational opportunities, while minimizing potential nuisances and ensuring the health and safety of the community.