Local Health Officials Considering Rule Changes For People Raising Farmyard Animals

Columbus Public Health officials are considering enacting new rules for people who raise chickens at their homes. Their proposal would allow chickens to roam free for two hours at any time, instead of one hour in the evening. The department would also reduce the price of permits for keeping farmyard animals. The rules are prompted by 140 complaints about the animals and their waste products. The department's board meets on September 20 to discuss the proposed rules. The Beavercreek City Council recently rejected a proposal allowing homeowners to raise chickens on their property.