More backyard hens and beehives could come to Gwinnett County, if local leaders on Tuesday approve recommended changes that would expand the areas where they are allowed.
Now, bees and chickens are permitted only in residential areas that are considered agricultural in nature. Under the new rules, anyone with at least 10,000 square feet — about a quarter of an acre — could have three hens and two beehives.
“It certainly makes it more accessible to small beekeepers, to backyard beekeepers here in the county,” Beekeeper’s Club of Gwinnett County president Derrick Fowler said in a meeting earlier this month. “It’s a step in the right direction.”
Beekeepers came to a county town hall meeting in March to ask for fewer restrictions on their hobby. Last year, the county put rules in place that limited residents’ ability to have hives.
Fowler said previously that the club has more than 250 members in Gwinnett.
With increased interest in local food, Suwanee resident Carol Hassell said, more people are interested in sustainable, local honey and eggs.
“I do think Gwinnett should be a leader in this regard,” she said. “The interest in both of these areas has grown substantially in recent years.”
Under the proposed rules, residents could have three hens if they had lots between 10,000 and 12,499 square feet; five hens if they had lots between 12,500 and 24,999 square feet; or 10 hens if they had lots between 25,000 and 39,999 square feet. Lots larger than 40,000 square feet could have an unlimited number of hens. Roosters would not be permitted, and the hens would only be allowed for egg production or as pets.
Homes could also have two beehives per 10,000 square feet.
Not all residents are thrilled with the possible changes, though. Feral chickens near Jimmy Carter Boulevard and I-85 have been bothering neighbors for years, and some are concerned about continued breeding if hens are let loose or escape.
At a county meeting last week, neighbors in that area questioned who was going to police the chickens, and whether the planned requirement for four-sided pens would be enough to contain them.
“Gwinnett is not farmland anymore. It seems inappropriate for chickens to be in neighborhoods,” said resident J.P. Menese. “Relying on certain animal owners to be responsible has not fared well.”
Local homeowners’ associations can still ban chickens and bees in their neighborhoods.
About the Author
