Town’s Urban Agriculture Policy Under Revision

Front Royal Planning Commission to Discuss Chicken-Keeping Limits

Residents of Front Royal may soon be hearing more clucking in their neighborhoods. The Town’s Planning Commission has announced a public hearing to consider revisions to the current urban agriculture policy, specifically concerning the keeping of chickens within town limits.

Slated for Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at 7:00 p.m., the hearing will take place at the Warren County Government Center Board Room. The primary focus of the session will be on application 2300462, which proposes a text amendment to the Town Code §175-110.5. If approved, the amendment would see changes to the “Performance Standards for Urban Agriculture.”

The central tenet of the proposed amendment is to permit residents to keep up to 10 chickens, depending on the square footage available for the coop and run space. This reflects a growing interest in urban agriculture and the benefits of local, home-raised food sources.

The proposed change comes amidst a wider movement nationwide, with many urban and suburban areas revising their policies to become more lenient towards small-scale animal husbandry. Chickens, in particular, have gained popularity due to their relatively low maintenance, ability to produce fresh eggs and roles in pest control and soil improvement.

Front Royal’s Department of Planning & Zoning, located at Town Hall on 102 East Main Street, has made all related public hearing items available for residents to review. They are urging citizens, especially those with strong views on the subject, to attend the public hearing. It is a platform for all stakeholders to voice their opinions, ask questions, and gain clarity on the implications of the proposed amendment.

The upcoming public hearing is a significant step for Front Royal’s urban agriculture landscape. Whether you’re an advocate for sustainable living, an urban farmer, or someone who enjoys the charm of backyard chickens, this is an opportunity to have your voice heard. The Planning Commission’s decision will shape the town’s relationship with urban agriculture for years to come.