Belle Fourche city leaders are considering new rules for backyard chickens—but residents are raising concerns.
At a public works committee meeting on Monday, officials discussed a draft ordinance that would formally allow urban chicken flocks while setting basic guidelines.
City Administrator Jason LaFayette says the goal is not to restrict chicken ownership, but to clarify rules and address complaints, since the current city code doesn’t clearly regulate backyard poultry.
Some residents, however, called the proposal government overreach, saying Belle Fourche’s lack of restrictions is part of its appeal.
The draft ordinance could limit where chickens are kept, require secure enclosures, and potentially ban roosters—often cited as a noise concern in other communities.
City officials say the proposal is still in early stages, with more public input needed before it goes to the city council.
