STUART — Stuart residents could soon be allowed to keep chickens in their backyards under a proposed ordinance change backed this week by the city’s Community Redevelopment Board.
The proposal comes as interest in backyard food production and sustainable living practices continues to grow, according to city officials.
“The City Commission recognizes a growing trend towards sustainable living practices including a desire to incorporate fresher locally sourced products into daily diets,” said Jodi Kugler, the city’s planning and zoning development director. “Additionally, there is an increasing interest in providing residents with opportunities to engage in small-scale backyard food production. Allowing a limited number of chickens on residential properties supports these objectives by enabling property owners to produce eggs for personal consumption.”…