Serving Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wood Counties
The Oak Harbor village council is considering two ordinances that support responsible animal ownership while preserving quality of life for all residents.
"When I talk to community members, the most common sentiment I hear is that they think everyone should have the option to keep animals like chickens but to do so responsibly," Oak Harbor mayor Quinton Babcock said. "Oak Harbor is an agricultural community and providing a clear framework encourages good practices and supports residents who want to responsibly raise animals."
The first ordinance is an update to existing legislation that prohibits animals from interfering with the use of neighboring or public property. The original ordinance prohibited animals who created excessive smells or other issues when they were used for business related purposes.
"In some communities, animals like chickens are simply banned," Babcock said. "But for more than 15 years, Oak Harbor has allowed them as long as they aren't causing problems. We recently reviewed that ordinance and realized that it needed to be updated to reflect what residents expect today."
Council has discussed the ordinance over the past two months and is expected to vote on the proposed legislation during its May 5 council meeting.
The second proposed ordinance would establish a new permitting system for outdoor animals such as chickens, ducks, or goats. While still continuing to encourage ownership, the ordinance introduces a system that promotes cooperation between neighbors and sets basic considerations for outdoor animals.
"We want to start with the assumption that you can own animals like chickens," Babcock said. "But the biggest challenge in Oak Harbor isn't regulations—it's making sure neighbors can live alongside each other peacefully when the animals come home. This framework is about giving both animal owners and neighbors clear expectations."
The proposed legislation would create a permit for outdoor animals and give neighbors the opportunity to provide feedback so that any concerns can be addressed. Council is expected to begin formal consideration on the new ordinance at the May 5 council meeting. Typically, legislation is considered at three consecutive meetings before a final vote, unless there is an urgent need for earlier action.
Residents with questions, comments, or input are encouraged to contact Mayor Quinton Babcock at qbabcock@oakharbor.oh.us.
