The Lafayette City Council held a public hearing on April 17, 2025, to discuss various community issues, including local regulations on animal ownership. One notable topic was the discussion surrounding the legality of keeping hens and roosters within city limits.

During the meeting, a resident highlighted the differing regulations in nearby cities, noting that Indianapolis permits residents to keep up to 12 hens and a rooster, while West Lafayette imposes no limits on poultry ownership. The resident referenced a conversation with Officer Samuel Brown from Carmel, who has extensive experience in animal control. Officer Brown expressed surprise that keeping hens is not legal in Lafayette, mentioning that there have been very few complaints regarding this issue, with no legal actions taken in response to such calls.

The council's discussion on this topic reflects ongoing considerations about local animal control policies and community preferences. As the meeting progressed, council members acknowledged the need to evaluate current regulations and their impact on residents.

The public hearing concluded with a commitment to further review the city's animal ownership laws, indicating that changes may be considered in future sessions. The council aims to balance community interests with regulatory frameworks, ensuring that local policies align with the needs and desires of Lafayette residents.