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Planning Commission Minutes March 28, 2017 Page 7 Councilmember Wagner asked how the size of the chicken coops would be regulated. Ms. Simon explained that typical lots are allowed 1,200 square feet of accessory structure including attached and detached, and that only 2 detached structures are allowed. The maximum number of detached structures allowed on large lots is 4. Councilmember Wagner asked if the property owner would be required to take down the coop if it was no longer in use. Ms. Simon stated no, it would be the same as any other detached structure. Discussion followed regarding opaque fencing of the coops and runs. It was the consensus of the Commission that requiring opaque fencing of the coops or runs themselves would defeat the purpose of raising free-range/cage-free chickens. Further discussion followed regarding multi -family residences. It was the consensus that raising chickens would not be an option for multi -family or two-family residential. Chair Johnson opened the public hearing. Dan Cooper, 17869 Lincoln Street NW, stated that he lived on a 1-acre lot and had chickens. He stated that opaque fencing would not be conducive to healthy chickens. He stated that he did not feel fencing was necessary on his approximately 1 acre lot which backs up to park land. He stated that if fencing were required, he could build one for about $200 if he did all the work himself. Mr. Cooper discussed the benefits of raising chickens. He stated that an opaque fence would be too expensive and would cost $900 or more. Mr. Cooper asked why compliance checks are being proposed, as the only city that requires them is Hastings. He stated that there are no compliance checks for dogs and their kennels/shelters and felt this would be unfair since their chickens are pets. Mr. Cooper stated that Elk River's ordinance as proposed would be the second most restrictive of all of the cities allowing this use. Greg Wierschke, 19227 Yale Street NW, stated he has had the opportunity to raise chicken near a residential neighborhood on the Burandt property for the last four years. He stated that he has found the best shelter to be 8'x 8' x 2'. He stated he only has had one predator problem in that time. Mr. Wierschke suggested that applicants provide an invoice that the states the chickens were purchased from a hatchery registered with the government, to ensure they are disease -free. He stated that his runs and coops are portable and can be taken apart and moved. He stated that the permanent structures being discussed would cost $900 - $1,000 and his cost $200 - $500. He stated that the chickens can be kept safe and away from view. Lori Richard, 14381 1906' Ave NW, stated that the number of chickens per lot size needs to be reconsidered. She stated that 4 chickens are not very many and small properties could easily accommodate more than 4, since they don't take up much room. She stated she raises chickens and has no problems with animals. She stated that locking up the chickens in the coop at night prevents predators from coming around. She felt that a 1-acre lot could easily accommodate 10 —14 chickens. There being no further public comment, Chair Johnson closed the public hearing. Commissioner Rydberg suggested that some research could be done on disease issues. He stated he was in favor of postponing this amendment to next month's Planning Commission