MARTINSVILLE, Va. (AP) — Martinsville’s City Council is considering a proposal to allow residents to keep chickens in their backyards.

The proposed ordinance would require residents to obtain a special use permit to keep backyard chickens. The City Council and the Martinsville Planning Commission would hold public hearings on applications for permits.

Applicants also would have to pay a $200 fee.

The Martinsville Bulletin (http://bit.ly/WygBhr ) reports that the council will hear public comments on the proposal at its meeting on Tuesday night.

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Information from: Martinsville Bulletin, http://www.martinsvillebulletin.com

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