By 1812Blockhouse
The short version: Mansfield residents will soon be allowed to keep a limited number of backyard hens within city limits.
What’s happening: Beginning April 1, residents may maintain up to six hens on residential property, provided they obtain a license and follow the city’s regulations.
Why it matters: Backyard chickens have become increasingly popular in cities across the country as residents look for fresh eggs and more control over food sources. Mansfield’s ordinance creates a legal framework that allows small-scale hen keeping while setting rules designed to prevent noise, sanitation, and nuisance issues.
What’s next: Applications for hen keeping licenses will become available March 20 through the City of Mansfield’s online Citizen Access Portal.
Applicants must first create a user account before submitting an application.
Applications can be accessed here.
Key rules
Residents who receive a license must follow several requirements:
• Maximum of six hens per property
• Roosters are not permitted
• Hens allowed only on properties with one- or two-family dwellings
• Hens must be confined from dusk to dawn
• Free ranging is prohibited
• Properties must remain clean, dry, and odor-free
Additional requirements include:
• Chickens must be banded, with bands obtained separately
• Feed must be stored properly to avoid pests
• Coops must be at least 12 inches off the ground and meet setback rules
• Rental properties require written permission from the property owner
Cost
The initial license fee is $100.
Annual renewals will cost $25 per year.
Failure to renew on time will require a new application and may include penalty fees.
Education requirement
Applicants must provide proof that they completed a backyard poultry education course. Ohio State University offers an approved online course at:
https://go.osu.edu/chicken
Other courses may also qualify if they cover responsible poultry care topics.
