Michigan Bill Could Legalize Backyard Chickens Statewide: Rural Residents Push for Food Freedom

New bill would let Michiganders raise chickens statewide, regardless of local bans.

STERLING, Mich. — A Sterling woman is voicing support for proposed legislation that would legalize backyard chickens across Michigan, saying current local restrictions defy common sense in rural communities.

Pam and her husband, Joe, moved to the small village of Sterling in 2022, expecting to raise chickens on their 2.66-acre property. But after attending a village meeting, they were told chickens were banned under a local ordinance—even though neighboring properties keep livestock.

“We went to ask about permits for a chicken coop and a run, and that’s when they said, ‘You’re not supposed to have chickens,’” Pam said in an interview. “We bought this property specifically because we thought we could live more independently. It made no sense.”

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Their neighbor, who had kept chickens for years without complaints, was ordered to remove them after getting a few roosters. Pam said the inconsistency in enforcement is frustrating.

Now, she’s supporting House Bill 4049, sponsored by Rep. James DeSana, R-Carleton. The bill would allow residents statewide to keep backyard chickens—up to 25 hens, depending on lot size—regardless of local ordinances.

“A young hen lays an egg about two out of every three days,” DeSana said in a statement. “Think about how much that could help families lower their grocery bills.”

Pam said backyard chickens offer more than just food. “They’re easy to care for, and some breeds follow you around like pets,” she said. “With rising grocery prices, having your own eggs or meat birds is a big help.”

The bill remains under consideration in the Michigan Legislature. Pam, who has contacted lawmakers and the Michigan Department of Agriculture, urged Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to act.

“There are people across the state waiting on this bill,” she said. “It’s time for the government to stop dragging it out.”