Cortland Approves Rules for Keeping Hens in Residential Areas

CORTLAND – The Town of Cortland has passed an ordinance allowing residents to keep up to six domesticated hens on single-family or agricultural properties of at least 11,000 square feet, provided coops are located in rear yards at least 12 feet from property lines and include an enclosed run. Roosters and slaughtering of hens are prohibited, coops must meet size and sanitation requirements, and hens must be confined at all times. The ordinance also updates zoning and public safety regulations to address location, noise, waste, and enforcement, with violations subject to police investigation and possible fines.