(a) Purpose and definitions.
(1) The purpose of this section is to regulate the keeping of a horse, mule, goat, cattle, fowl, and other birds that are not part of a bona fide farming operation. The chapter applies to properties located within the corporate limits of the town.
(2) "Fowl" and "birds" include the following: chickens, game hens, ducks, swans, geese, and other birds typically used as food. This definition for animal keeping does not include parrots, parakeets, and other non-food birds.
(b) Prohibitions. Horses, mules, goats, cattle, all other types of livestock, fowl, and other birds shall not be permitted within the town limits, except as provided in Subsection C - Exceptions.
(c) Exceptions.
(1) Horses. The keeping of horses is permitted provided the following conditions are met:
a. Allowed only in the R-12 Residential Zoning District.
b. A minimum of three (3) acres of property is available for each horse.
c. The part of the property where the horse is kept shall be completely enclosed by a fence.
(2) Chickens. The keeping of chickens is permitted in the R-8, R-12, and R-12-A Residential Districts, provided the following conditions are met:
a. Maximum number of chickens on the property - ten (10).
b. No roosters are allowed.
c. Placement of the pen shall be in the rear yard only.
d. No free-range (chickens are penned all times).
e. Pens shall be a minimum of one hundred (100) feet from all adjoining residences.
f. Pens shall be a minimum of fifty (50) feet from all property lines.
g. Must comply with all applicable provisions of the Town of Valdese Animal Code (ex. cleanliness, odor).
(d) Keeping domestic pets. In all zones where dwelling units are allowed, domestic animals are allowed to be kept as household pets. Up to an aggregate of six (6) domestic animals per dwelling unit is permitted subject to restrictions outlined in Section 8-2008 through Sections 8-2012 and Section 8-2022. Birds (canary, parakeet, etc.); amphibian/reptile (turtle, lizard, etc.); rodent (rat, hamster, gerbil, etc.); and tropical fish are excluded from the numerical limitations. (Ord. of 4/4/16; Ord. of 6/28/21)