The Town of North Attleborough is reminding residents who keep backyard chickens that all properties with chickens must now be licensed with the town, including properties in the R40 zoning district where keeping chickens was previously allowed by right.
The town’s updated backyard chicken regulations took effect July 1 and expanded where chickens may be kept, while establishing licensing and other requirements for chicken owners.
Under the regulations:
• All properties where chickens are kept must obtain an annual license, including properties where chickens were previously allowed by right.
• Properties under 7,500 square feet are not eligible to keep chickens.
• Properties between 7,500 and 10,000 square feet may keep up to four hens.
• R10 properties may keep up to six hens.
• R20 properties may keep up to 12 hens.
• R40 and agricultural properties allow larger or unlimited flocks.
As part of an effort to bring properties into compliance before enforcement begins, the Health Department and animal control officer are conducting outreach to properties identified as potentially having an unlicensed chicken coop.
Residents at those properties will receive a letter explaining the licensing requirement and how to begin the process. Residents who receive a notice are asked to begin the licensing process by Oct. 21. The town’s goal is to make sure residents are aware of the requirements and have an opportunity to ask questions and begin the licensing process before fines are issued.
After Oct. 21, properties with chicken coops that have not at least begun the licensing process may be subject to enforcement. Noncompliance may result in a $100 penalty, with additional penalties possible for continued noncompliance.
Chicken coop licenses can be obtained online through the town’s permit portal. Residents who do not have online access or need assistance may contact the Health Department at 508-699 0100, ext. 2560 or the town clerk’s office at 508-699-0100, ext. 2561.