Lorain, OH — City Council is considering a revised ordinance that would make keeping chickens and other farm animals within city limits a jailable offense.
The proposed update to the city’s code would explicitly prohibit residents from housing farm animals—including chickens, goats, and horses—in residential areas. Violators could face a fine of up to $150 and up to 30 days in jail.
The ordinance is also designed to give the courts discretion to order the removal of animals and the destruction of enclosures, such as coops or pens. These actions would be carried out at the offender’s expense. The city’s law department has indicated that such conditions would be handled through the sentencing process, with judges authorized to suspend part of a sentence if the animals are removed and structures dismantled.
Council members raised concerns about the clarity of the ordinance’s language, particularly how farm animals are defined and whether certain exceptions—such as emotional support animals—might apply. One section of the proposal mentions animals used for food or fiber, but also includes horses, creating potential confusion.
Due to these concerns, the ordinance was not passed and was instead sent back to committee for further review. Council members plan to revisit the issue after the August recess, with the goal of refining definitions and enforcement guidelines.
The topic drew attention during recent discussions as residents voiced both support and opposition to backyard chickens in the city. Further debate is expected when the council returns in September.