One particularly warm evening last summer, I went out to my backyard to relax and enjoy some fresh air. Instead, I was greeted by the loud screech of a chicken. We had an unwanted guest in our garden. Unfortunately, such chicken invasions are a common occurrence in many areas of Stockton, California. Across the United States, municipalities large and small are debating whether or not they should enact residential livestock ordinances, particularly regarding poultry. Considering they often pose a public nuisance and pose a health risk, local officials should consider limiting private ownership of chickens in densely populated urban areas. While there are many reasons why a person might want to raise their own chickens, not everyone in their neighborhood may support the idea. Chickens often make noises that can disturb those with sensitive hearing. Additionally, careless practices can lead to odor problems. This is especially concerning for those who live in areas with warmer climates, such as the Central Valley, where temperatures often reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. Most cities already have ordinances in place for dogs and other pets. Whether they require owners to obtain licenses or serve to limit the overall noise level in an area, these laws are generally in place to protect both animals and the humans who live among them. It seems fair that if chickens are considered acceptable pets in an area, current laws should be changed to include them or similar new protections put in place. Recent concerns regarding the risks of avian influenza and other exotic diseases have prompted some local chicken and farmers to adopt strict biosecurity protocols to keep their birds safe. ...... middle of the sheet ...... 2009 .4. Hawkins, Sharon. Private conversation. San Joaquin County Agricultural Commissioner's Office. Stockton, CA. November 30, 2009.5. “Health Risks Associated with Raising Chickens.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.02 December 2009 .6. MacDonald, G. Jeffrey. “Chickens are coming home to roost in backyards across the United States.” USA Today.10 November 2009. 02 December 2009 .7. Friends, Bart. “Helping poultry farmers raise birds in an urban area.” American Poultry Association.02 December 2009 .8. Skinner, Katy. "Articles about chickens in the city." The City Chicken.02 Dec. 2009 .