Backyard Chicken License Information

1) If you are planning to build a new structure for housing your chickens - complete an application for a building permit and a license application (which includes a site plan) to the satisfaction of the Building Inspector. If you are planning on using an existing structure for housing your chickens - complete only an application for a license, which automatically triggers a site plan review by the Building Inspector.

2) After you have received approval from the Building Inspector for your site plan, and building permit (if needed), this approved site plan will constitute your application for the Backyard Chicken License.

3) Present both the application showing an approved site plan, and a check or money order payable to “City of Lake Mills” for $10 to the City Clerk, whose office is at 200 Water Street, 2^nd floor.

4) Applicants may apply for the annual Backyard Chicken License Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm. Approval by the City Clerk is contingent on an approved site plan and building permit (if needed) and on review for completeness and compliance with the ordinance. The license will be mailed to the applicant, if approved.

5) Applicants must reapply for a license on an annual basis. Approval of a building permit is only required if the enclosure structure is modified, but a new site plan approval is required whenever applying for a license renewal.

Backyard Chickens

As of March 16, 2012, residents in the City of Lake Mills are allowed to keep chickens with the following provisions:

The keeping of up to 6 chickens with an annual license is allowed only on residential lots with a single-family residence. Chickens will not be allowed on commercial or mixed-use occupancies, or on multi-family or duplex lots.
Roosters of all types and Guinea Hens are not allowed.
No person may slaughter any chickens.

The chickens and their enclosure may be no closer to 15 feet of any neighboring property, and may not be in the front yard.

The Building Inspector will inspect and determine compliance with the ordinance on a complaint basis or if he believes a violation may be occurring. The City may take enforcement action it deems appropriate if violations are noted.

Chickens and any waste from the keeping of chickens shall not cause any nuisance, unhealthy condition, public health threat or otherwise interfere with the normal use of property or enjoyment of life by humans or animals.

City of Lake Mills, Wisconsin

Search

Backyard Chicken License Information