Bakersfield City Council discussing legalization of backyard hens

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Later this month the Bakersfield City Council will hear about the ongoing process to legalize hen ownership within city limits.

The local group Bakersfield Urban Backyard Hens is trying to get an ordinance passed that would allow residents to keep hens in their yards.

"Chickens are domesticated animals that people have as pets. many cities in California and our nation allow backyard hens. Most citizens will not want to own chickens as not all residents want to own dogs," said group member Mt Merickle.

The city's legislative and litigation committee discussed a proposed ordinance on Tuesday. During that meeting, some citizens expressed concerns about the noise and others about possible diseases associated with the hens.

The ordinance will be brought back for further discussion by the city on September 23.