RAPID CITY, S.D. – Following in the footsteps of other Black Hills communities, the Rapid City Council this week approved first reading of an ordinance that will allow city residents to keep backyard chickens.

The 7-2 yes vote would allow homeowners to keep up to six hens and six chicks up to 12 weeks old. The ordinance also governs chicken coops by allowing them only in backyards and not front or side yards.

Roosters, ducks, turkey and other fowl are not allowed under the ordinance.

The ordinance now goes back to Legal and Finance Committee for a second reading, and, if passed there, returns to the Council for final consideration.