Commercial Operations May Be at Risk
It is a minimal risk at best, but one to consider, depending on where you plan to set up your home flock and in what proximity you may be to any commercial poultry operations. Diseases like Exotic Newcastle disease are of minimal concern to the average person (causing only mild eye infections in people), but the introduction of this disease through privately owned flocks can cause major economic damage in communities where chicken farming is an important industry. Be sure to educate yourself on the risks and be sure to purchase your livestock from a reputable dealer.
Your Neighbors May Not "Get It"
While you may enjoy the thought of raising your own chickens, eating free-range eggs with increased nutritional content, and lowering your carbon footprint, your neighbors (who likely will not be enjoying the same benefits) may not appreciate your efforts. Not only will you potentially have to deal with wrangling chickens that have escaped their coops and gotten onto a neighbor’s property (and potentially damaged flower beds or left droppings behind), but the presence of your flock also may create odor and noise issues that could be unpopular with your community. Flies may be attracted to your property unless you have adequate fly control in place.
Your Local Government May Not "Get It"
Whether you live in an HOA community or the middle of a sprawling suburban community, rules and regulations regarding keeping livestock on private property vary by city, county and state ordinances. You’ll need to look into whether or not you’ll be running afoul (pun intended) of local regulations before investing in your flock, or you’ll be forced to shut down your operation and risk having to pay hefty fines. Also be sure, if you live in a homeowner’s association neighborhood (HOA) or community with its own set of rules and regulations that you aren’t going to violate those by starting your own flock. HOAs have the right to implement their own regulations, regardless of the local laws, and they can impose their own fines (or a lien on your home) if you fail to comply. Also, because HOAs have the right to change their charters at will, it may be advisable to meet with your board before investing in the startup costs for a home flock.