This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The only way most Springville residents will have chickens in their backyards is fried or grilled.
The City Council voted 3-1 on Jan. 18 against letting residents keep live chickens in their backyards. City Administrator Troy Fitzgerald said the council heeded the Planning Commission's recommendation against permitting chicken coops in residential areas.
Councilman Phil Bird was the only vote in favor of the ordinance; Councilman J. Niel Strong was absent.
In September, the council directed city staff to prepare an ordinance allowing residential chicken coops after several residents requested permission to keep birds. Currently, the city permits only livestock — including chickens — on lots that are at least a half-acre in size.
Among the Planning Commission's concerns were the expense involved in enforcing the ordinance and the problems it would cause the city. The city's animal control officer also warned that chickens would attract more wildlife into the city.
Springville's two neighbors, Provo and Spanish Fork, both permit chickens in backyards.
Donald W. Meyers