Politics & Government

Backyard Chickens in Tarpon Springs?

The proposal from Tarponite Denise Mannino is gaining momentum and will be brought before the City Commission for a vote on Tuesday night.

For Denise Mannino, the ability to have her own chickens at her Tarpon Springs home is about more than just eggs. It's about being a progressive-minded community, according to Mannino.

"In order to be forward thinking and sustainability friendly, approving backyard chickens is very symbolic," Mannino said.

Which is why she brought the idea before the Tarpon Springs Board of Commissioners on May 21. 

From there, the issue was approved for its first reading, which took place a few weeks back. 

Commissioners like David Banther were supportive of the idea from the start. He is the one responsible for getting the item on the agenda in the first place.

Similar to Mannino's thinking, Banther sees it as a draw for young people looking for a sustainable place to live.

"I personally don't have chickens, nor do I plan to," Banther said. "I am hopeful this will be a positive thing for the city, attract more residents who are concerned about sustainability issues and allow current residents to produce their own eggs if desired."

Mannino says there are more benefits than meet the eye from having backyard chickens.

She said they are crucial for gardeners because they act as "insect management" as well as offering natural fertilizer. 

Although there has been some resistance from residents, City Manager Mark LeCouris explained that the way the ordinance is drawn up should limit the fears. 

"We took everybody's opinions, against and for, and kind of molded an ordinance in between," LeCouris said.

In recent years, Pinellas County approved an ordinance for backyard chickens in unincorporated towns. Largo, Dunedin, Gulfport, St. Petersburg and Belleair have also approved similar laws.

"From our research, I don't think it's going to be a burden on city services," LeCouris added.

The backyard chicken ordinance, if approved, would consist of an application process, a $50 fee and a limit to female chickens only. Roosters, known for their crowing, would not be permitted.

If it passes at Tuesday's City Commission meeting, LeCouris said it would go into effect almost immediately.

"It has been discussed for years, but never put to a vote," Banther said. "I felt it was time to let the BOC vote it up or down."

So, Tarpon Springs, what do you think? How would you feel about backyard chickens? Let us know in the comments section below.


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