Dogs, cats or other household pets are permitted so long as they are not “kept, bred, or maintained for any commercial purposes.” While chickens may be allowed in the City of Springfield according to the Springfield Municipal code, Article VII, Section 2 of our CC&R’s states in part that “No animals, livestock or poultry of any kind shall be raised, bred, or kept on any part of said property”. Also keep in mind that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn about the risks of Salmonella and Avian Flu from backyard chicken flocks, especially in children under 5 and adults over 65. Read their report by clicking here. These diseases can be deadly. In early 2017 the CDC reported that 47 states have reported cases of human salmonella connected with backyard chicken flocks and 71 people have been hospitalized. The infection is usually spread by chicken droppings which can be spread easily. Another concern regarding having chickens in our neighborhood is the rat problem they contribute to. On December 10, 2017 The Oregonian published an article linking the rise of rat infestations in Eugene to chicken coops, compost piles, and backyard gardens. This is a short excerpt of the article available online:

Grant Williams, who owns Ultimate Pest Control, said he’s receiving three times more calls about rats than normal, and his supply ordering is barely keeping pace. The representatives all identity as a primary culprit the prevalence of chicken coops, compost piles and backyard gardens around Eugene. They noted that weather and increased development also can be factors. In 2013, city councilors relaxed regulations for urban farming. The change increased the number of chickens that a resident within city limits can have from two to six. In addition, a resident now can have up to six chicks. Robin Morrison, branch manager for Bug Zapper Pest Control, said the chicken coops, compost piles and fallen, rotting fruit are a magnet for rodents. “That’s like a free buffet for rats,” he said.

Read the full article by clicking here.

Important – Please Read

These statements or summaries are provided to help the homeowners who are a part of the Ambleside Meadows HOA understand the CC&R’s that apply to property in our neighborhood. They do not replace, waive, or supplant the CC&R’s, and are not a substitute for reading and following the actual text of the CC&R’s. Please take time to read the actual CC&R’s and become familiar with their terms, conditions, restrictions, and rules regarding property ownership in our neighborhood. If you have any questions regarding the CC&R’s, please contact your HOA Board or speak to a qualified attorney.