Proposed right-to-farm ordinance generates controversy

Measure involves ducks, turkeys, chickens, etc. on lots of various sizes

By John Tredrea, Staff Writer
   HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP — A controversial right-to-farm ordinance that would allow up to six chickens on a ½-acre lot was introduced by the Hopewell Township Committee Monday night.
   Before the measure will come up for an adoption vote, it will be reviewed in writing by the township Planning Board, Zoning Board of Adjustment, Health Advisory Committee and Environmental Commission. The Open Space and Agricultural Advisory committee already have endorsed the measure.
   Most of the opposition to the ordinance came from residents of Princeton Farms, a development of 120-homes on ½-acre lots in the eastern section of the township. They said having poultry on neighborhood lots that small has raised concerns about the development’s high water table, odors and noise.
   Several residents spoke in favor of the proposed measure as well.
   The lengthy proposed ordinance said a duck or turkey could be kept on a ½-acre lot instead of six chickens; or that two pheasant or quail could be kept on a ½-acre lot instead of six chickens. Swine, roosters, geese, guineas and peacocks would not be permitted on lots smaller than 5 acres.
   A 2-acre minimum lot size for a sheep or goat is required by the proposed measure; for a horse, 3 acres.
   The proposed measure also sets standards for outside lots for medium and large animals, housing for poultry and general waste and management for all animals.