Las Crucens take advantage of new chicken ordinance

Las Cruces is now another city where people can own chickens. It’s part of a new city ordinance that residents are taking full advantage of.

Leah Allred and her three young boys stopped by a Las Cruces shop this week to prep for the new addition to their family–chickens.

“We think it’ll be great for our kids to learn responsibility,” Allred said.

Las Cruces City Council passed an ordinance allowing anyone to own up to six chickens or ducks with a special permit. Council recently approved the fees associated with last November’s ordinance–that means eager urban chicken owners like Allred, just got the “go” they’ve been waiting for.

“We’ve actually been waiting for the city to allow them in city limits so as soon as we heard, we were so excited,” Allred said.

Gino Jimenez, a city codes enforcement officer, says urban chickens have become increasingly popular over the years.

“The eggs are going to be more natural, no chemicals, no steroids, nothing to make the eggs bigger, they’re going to be natural,” Jimenez said.

Ernst Bolleter, has several chickens and says he loves owning them for that very reason.

“It’s the best, I love natural foods stuff, and yea I love to cook with it,” Bolleter said.

Like any pet–he says they quickly become part of the family.

“They just think you’re their mother, they follow you everywhere and they’re a lot of fun,” Bolleter said.

The permit to own one costs $25 for the first year and $20 for each year after.

If you get a permit, there are guidelines to follow–the chickens must have proper food, water and a clean & secure shelter.

If you’d like to learn more about owning chickens, you can contact Las Cruces Code Enforcement and Animal Control at (575) 528-4100.