Boston Zoning Board Approves Chicken Coop Amid Community Support
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting of the Boston Zoning Board of Appeals, a proposal to legalize a backyard chicken coop on Ricker Hill Road captured attention and was approved following strong community support. Meanwhile, the board also approved multiple residential construction projects and a catering license for a local restaurant.
The board’s decision to approve the chicken coop arose after homeowners Jesse, Alana, and Johanna Littlewood presented their case for maintaining the structure, which had been flagged for zoning non-compliance. The family emphasized the positive impact of the chickens on both their lives and those of their neighbors, noting that local children frequently visit to see the chickens. The board was informed that the coop had already been in use and the appeal sought to address a zoning violation for its existing location. The Littlewoods provided letters of support from neighbors, including those directly adjacent to the property. The approval came with a proviso for site planning review to ensure proper location, size, and materials.
In addition to the chicken coop, the board approved a new front porch on Wachusett Street, presented by Francis Ugo and Casey Fernandez. The project aims to enhance the property’s functionality and appearance, providing a sheltered entryway and sitting area. No objections were raised during the community process, and the Mayor’s Office expressed no concerns.
Another notable approval was for a residential expansion on Bellevue Hill Road. Architect Bond Worthington outlined plans for two vertical additions and a roof deck, which required zoning relief due to side yard setbacks. The design maintains the existing brick facade and seeks to harmonize with the neighborhood’s architectural style. The West Roxbury Neighborhood Council supported the application, and no community objections were reported.
The meeting concluded with the board granting a catering license for El Rincon Caribeno on Fairmont Avenue. The applicant aimed to enhance service offerings to the community, with the Mayor’s Office deferring to the board’s judgment on the matter.
Michelle Wu
Zoning Board Officials:
Giovanni Valencia, Norm Stembridge, Shavel’le Olivier, Sherry Dong, David Aiken, Katie Whewell, Hansy Barraza, Raheem Shepard, Alan Langham, Dave Collins, Arthur Jemison (Chief of Planning)
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
05/14/2026
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Recording Published:
05/15/2026
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Duration:
23 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Suffolk County
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Towns:
Boston
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