During public comment at the Hoffman Estates Village Board meeting on Nov. 17, resident Justin Colts identified himself and asked whether his property (740 West Algonquin Road) is incorporated and whether the village permits backyard chickens or beekeeping.

A village official replied, "The village board has not legalized either beekeeping or chickens," and confirmed Mr. Colts’ address as being within Hoffman Estates. Colts thanked the board for the clarification.

The exchange was brief and took place during the public-comment portion of the meeting; no ordinance or staff directive was introduced at that time to change zoning or animal-keeping rules. The board did not indicate any immediate next steps or scheduled discussion on amending municipal code to allow chickens or bees.

What was said

Justin Colts, a resident, said he was a newer resident and asked whether his residence is incorporated and whether Hoffman Estates "had some laws ... against chickens and bees." The board’s response clarified that current village code does not legalize beekeeping or backyard chickens.

What comes next

No staff report or motion to change village code was made during the meeting. Residents seeking to keep bees or chickens should consult the Village of Hoffman Estates municipal code or contact Village staff for permit and zoning guidance.