Amherst Town Meeting members invited to visit backyard chicken coop

With Town Meeting slated to consider amending the backyard chicken bylaw next month, members have the chance to visit a coop as part of a regional chicken coop tour this weekend.

The Planning Board last week voted to support the petition that is being brought to Town Meeting by University of Massachusetts professor John Gerber. The board will offer some modifications on Town Meeting floor.

The petition, which has to receive a two-third's vote to pass at Town Meeting, would allow up to 12 animals – hens or rabbits – throughout town. The proposal also eliminates the need for a special permit, which is required in some town zones now.

The idea is to make it easier and less costly for people to be able to have backyard hens. Gerber said it cost him $210 to go through the permitting process.

Under the proposal, those wanting hens or rabbits would have to register the coop or hutch with town Animal Welfare officer Carol A. Hepburn. Health Director Julie Federman has suggested a $10 fee. Hepburn would inspect the site when someone is registering the first time, Gerber said.