JACKSON, Wyo. — During the Town Council workshop on Monday, Oct. 21, Councilors discussed possibly giving chickens and honeybees residence in Jackson.
In response, many community members have voiced their opposition to having the species as possible neighbors, according to the staff report. Wildlife agencies, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Grizzly Bear Recovery Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Elk Refuge, Wyoming Game and Fish Department and Bear Wise Jackson Hole, have also issued statements against hens and honeybees within Town limits, especially because the smell could attract bears.
Prior to public comment, staff was instructed to draft a list of ordinances for the possible inclusion of chickens and honey bees in Town on Feb 26.
According to the draft ordinances for chickens, only hens and not roosters could roost in Town. The maximum number of hens would be six per lot.
The coop or run must be kept clean and sanitary, and meet minimum treatment standards. Bear conflict prevention measures must include: shutting hens in the coop from sunset to sunrise, feed enclosed in a bear-resistant container, the coop, pen or chicken run must meet the requirements of a bear-resistant enclosure and be kept free of chicken waste and unharvested eggs.
Additionally, chickens must be kept at least 50 feet from any residential structure and cannot be on any property near wetlands or a body of water.
According to the draft ordinances for honey bees, the only species of bee that would be allowed is the Apis Mellifera. Bees could not be kept on any public property, community gardens or multifamily residential property. All bee colonies would have to be kept in hives that can be inspected with removable combs.
Hives would need to be maintained in a bear-resistant building, fencing or enclosure and located at least 10 feet from any adjoining property line. If a colony is situated within 25 feet of a developed property line, a flyway barrier would need to be at least six feet in height.
Modifications to the final ordinances will be presented for a first reading during the regular Town Council meeting on Monday, Nov. 18. Public comment is welcome.
