Ukiah council moves forward with proposal to relax rules for backyard animal ownership

The Ukiah City Council unanimously approved a proposal allowing residents to keep backyard animals like hens and rabbits without paying a fee or undergoing a Planning Commission review. The council expects to finalize the ordinance on September 3. Under current regulations, residents must apply for a costly minor use permit, which includes a $1,000 fee and a public hearing. The new proposal establishes performance standards that limit the number of animals based on property size, such as six hens or rabbits per parcel of 40,000 square feet or less. Residents would not need a permit as long as they comply with these standards.

Those exceeding the limits would need to apply for an administrative use permit, which will have a lower fee and a simpler application process. Councilmember Mari Rodin emphasized that the change will facilitate compliance with city codes. The proposal aims to promote responsible animal ownership while reducing regulatory burdens for residents.