Chickens Aren't Just For Countrysides Anymore

Residents of Austin, TX are risking violation of city ordinances forbidding loud animals to raise chickens in their central city neighborhood backyards. It's partly a way to cut out-of-pocket expenses.

1 minute read

July 11, 2008, 10:00 AM PDT

By Larry Schooler


"At Callahan's General Store in Southeast Austin, sales of chicks and layer hens have roughly doubled from last year, manager Mike Young said. With grocery store egg prices rising - up about 50 percent from two years ago, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics - most people buying chickens say they're looking to save a little money by growing their own, Young said.

Some chicken buyers say they are seeking a local, sustainable and safe supply of eggs. Others just prefer the taste of fresh eggs.

Though roosters aren't specifically banned within Austin's city limits, the ordinance against animals that make "frequent or long, continued noise that is disturbing to a person of normal sensibilities" effectively bars rooster ownership for all but those with the most easygoing neighbors."

Monday, July 7, 2008 in Austin American-Statesman

Young Professional

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

Get top-rated, practical training for planners

"Planetizen federal action tracker" logo superimposed over black and white image of US Capitol dome.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

September 30, 2026 - Zachary Whalen

The mayor of Baltimore speaks into a microphone in front of a rally for more state transportation funding from Maryland.

‘Going backwards:’ Baltimore mayor, students rally against state's transit funding plan

Maryland's proposed six-year plan provides no funding for Baltimore’s BMORE bus program and reduces its road maintenance funding.

October 2, 2026 - Baltimore Sun

A rendering of the waterfront development, which shows a lit-up stage by the waterfront and people walking about.

Detroit to transform waterfront with $2.2 billion investment

Developers will convert about 18 acres of unused parking lot space into civic spaces.

October 2, 2026 - ABC 7

Gavin Newsom gesturing with both hands out behind a podium.

Newsom vetoes high-speed rail supervision bill after agency receives condemnatory audit

The audit found the CHSRA approved almost $600,000 in unallowable travel expenses.

October 4 - Cal Matters

The Seaglider, a plane-shaped vehicle with four wings that curve sharply towards the sea after a few feet.

Nation sees first electric plane-boat hybrid take off in public demo

The Viceroy Seaglider can fly at speeds of 180mph for up to 180 miles.

October 4 - Smart Cities Dive

A data center. It is a low, white building, seen from above.

One of nation’s poorest counties to receive $6 billion data center

The developers estimate the project will create 200 permanent jobs and 1,000 temporary construction jobs.

October 4 - Mississippi Today

FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?

After describing his path towards focusing on walkability as the essence of good planning, Jeff Speck marches through his five principal reasons for making more walkable places.

Reinventing Malls: Planning Alchemy—Turning Gray Fields Into Gold

The course focuses on the opportunities and imperatives that shape reinvention of mall sites.

Senior Planner

City of Thousand Oaks

Community Development Director

City of Wisconsin Rapids

Professor of Urban Planning

Harvard University Graduate School of Design