Cheyenne City Council Passes Backyard Chicken Ordinance

After weeks of meetings and countless hours of debate, the Cheyenne City Council has decided to legalize backyard chickens.

Under the new law, residents can keep up to six hens in a covered, predator-resistant coop, provided they have the written consent of their neighbors and aren't in violation of any neighborhood covenants or HOA agreements. Roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys and guinea fowl aren't allowed.

"We're going forward with that sort of self-policing model and keeping the city out of it," said Councilman Dicky Shanor. "Our faith lies in you that you're going to be responsible chicken owners."

"I see it as an opportunity to build a community," said Councilman Jeff White.

Councilmen Jim Brown and Annette Williams, Council President Bryan Cook and Mayor Rick Kaysen voted against the ordinance.