Detroit City Council Approves Backyard Animal Ordinance

The Detroit City Council has passed a new ordinance allowing residents to keep chickens, ducks, and honeybees on their properties, marking a significant shift in the city's urban agriculture policy. The ordinance, which passed with a 5-3 vote, permits residents to own up to eight chickens or ducks and four beehives, with strict regulations on shelter, waste management, and health documentation. Effective January 31, 2025, the move aims to enhance access to fresh local food and support urban farming in the city. However, council members opposing the ordinance, such as Mary Waters, argue that residents should have the right to vote on such changes. Proponents of the ordinance believe it will foster agricultural education and food security, while opponents express concerns over adequate community input. Overall, the legislation reflects a growing acceptance of urban farming in Detroit, similar to trends in other Michigan cities.