County regulators have changed existing zoning ordinances to allow chickens to be raised in backyards where they were not previously allowed, such as land zoned for single-family homes. County rezoning does not affect incorporated communities like Havasu.

In 2014, when the Arizona legislature was considering a bill to allow rearing of chickens and duck sand geese in the backyards of single-family homes, local legislators briefly considered changing the rule. However, the bill was defeated, leaving Havasu’s anti-chicken ordinance in place.

Congress continues to try to address the issue, and we expect statewide guidance to favor chicken owners at some point. Lake Havasu City Council members should take a proactive approach to the issue, as their colleagues in the county, Kingman and Bullhead have already done.

In the City of Lake Havasu, rules for rules seem to be the only reason not to allow backyard birds. It’s an odd stance for a community that claims to prioritize individual liberty, but city leaders seem to be drawing the line when it comes to poultry.

Arbitrary rules restricting residents from raising chickens make no sense. Concerns about odors, illness and hygiene can be easily dismissed. If you raise chickens responsibly, these issues will not be a problem.

The City of Lake Havasu should think again of its feathered friends. Many cities have found a compromise on this issue, allowing up to four or more chickens per household. At the very least, Havas might consider “decriminalizing” chicken keeping.

Currently, fines of up to $2,500 can be imposed if you are found keeping animals on non-agricultural land. That’s a lot of fodder for chickens, and in these days of unprecedented inflation, he might be able to buy a dozen eggs.

— Today’s News Herald