Bristol, TN Considers Banning Roosters in City Limits

In the quiet city of Bristol, TN, the early morning crow of a rooster might soon be silenced. The city council is considering a new ordinance that aims to ban roosters within the city limits due to growing concerns over noise complaints from residents.

During a recent work session, the Bristol, Tennessee City Council reviewed a draft ordinance that would prohibit keeping roosters inside the city. The proposal also includes other vocal fowl like peacocks and guinea fowl. If this ordinance passes, it could not only change the soundscape of Bristol but also impact residents who enjoy keeping these birds.

Major Walter Brown from the Bristol Tennessee Police Department presented the proposed ordinance to the council. He highlighted the ongoing issue with noise complaints related to roosters. “Community Development and the police department have received several complaints on the noise and of roosters that were located inside the city,” Brown mentioned. “Other cities around us have already banned roosters, so we looked at proposing an ordinance to follow suit.”

In discussing the specifics, Brown noted that nearby cities such as Bristol, Virginia, and Johnson City do not allow roosters at all. Kingsport allows only one rooster if the property spans at least five acres. “With the close confines in the city,” Brown said, “we think it’d be better not to have any roosters at all.”

This proposed ordinance does come with specific exceptions, though. Notably, if someone happens to own 50 acres or more within the city (which currently isn’t the case), they could still keep roosters. Major Brown explained that this clause is intended to cover any exceptional properties that might appear in the future.

For those concerned about their hens, there’s a bit of good news. The ban would not affect hens, so residents can still keep their egg-laying companions. It’s particularly noteworthy for those who keep hens but are often subject to complaints because of the roosters’ early morning calls.

The proposed changes are not slated to go into effect immediately, even if approved. The recommendation is to set the ban’s start date in March 2025, giving time for public announcements and allowing residents time to rehome their roosters. This period would also enable residents to voice their opinions during the two reading sessions mandatory for the ordinance’s adoption.

This decision follows a broader trend seen in other municipalities, where management of local sound pollution becomes a pressing communal issue. Residents’ responses are likely to be a mixed bag, with some grateful for quieter mornings and others potentially having to rethink their backyard farming habits.

As the city of Bristol considers its next steps, local residents will have the opportunity to participate in the conversation. They can attend the upcoming readings to voice their support or concerns about the proposed changes. The council aims to balance community peace with residents’ rights to keep various animals.

Should this ordinance pass, it could serve as a model for other small cities grappling with similar issues. Noise pollution is increasingly becoming a significant aspect of urban life that city councils must address proactively.

In summary, the potential ban on roosters in Bristol, TN highlights a common urban challenge: maintaining community tranquility while respecting individual freedoms. The decision, yet to be finalized, will likely set a precedent for local animal control policies and influence how other cities handle such situations. Residents eagerly await the council’s final decision, hoping it reflects the best interests of the entire community.

Stay tuned for further updates as the Bristol, Tennessee City Council moves forward with the proposal’s discussion and ultimately decides the fate of these early morning alarm clocks.