Received an HOA violation notice for your backyard chickens? This template letter cites the applicable state law (Florida HB 1203), documents your compliance with the visibility requirement, and formally requests rescission of the notice. Fill in the blanks, print, and send by certified mail.
This template is written primarily for Florida residents using HB 1203 (2024). An alternate paragraph is included below for other states. If your state does not have a specific HOA chicken protection statute, consult a licensed attorney in your state — this template does not apply without the applicable state law.
Dear [HOA Board / Management Company Name],
I am writing in response to the violation notice dated , which states that I am in violation of CC&R Section regarding the keeping of backyard chickens at my property at .
I respectfully contest this violation notice and request that it be rescinded for the following reasons.
1. Florida HB 1203 (2024) Prohibits This HOA Ban
Florida House Bill 1203, signed into law on July 1, 2024 and effective immediately, amends Florida's homeowners' association statutes to prohibit HOAs from banning residents from keeping backyard poultry that is not visible from:
Any provision in a dedicatory instrument — including CC&R provisions — that conflicts with this statute is void and unenforceable as of the bill's effective date (July 2024).
2. My Coop Meets the Visibility Requirement
My chicken coop and run are located in the rear yard of my property. They are not visible from:
I have enclosed photographs documenting the non-visibility of the coop and run from all relevant vantage points. These were taken on .
3. The Violation Notice Is Therefore Without Legal Basis
Because HB 1203 renders the applicable CC&R provision void as applied to my coop — which meets the visibility criteria — the violation notice is without legal basis. I request that the HOA:
I remain committed to maintaining my property in good condition and being a cooperative member of this community. I am happy to provide additional documentation of my coop's compliance with the visibility requirement. Please respond in writing within days [10–14 days is reasonable].
If the HOA declines to rescind this notice despite the legal requirements of HB 1203, I may need to seek legal counsel. I would prefer to resolve this matter without escalation.
Sincerely,
If you are NOT in Florida, replace paragraphs 1 and 2 above with the following:
"My city's ordinance permits backyard chickens at my property. While I understand the CC&R provision on its face, I believe [describe your state's law or situation here]. I request a hearing before the board to discuss this matter prior to any fine being imposed, as I believe I am entitled to under [cite your state's HOA statute governing member hearings]."
Without a specific state statute (like Florida's HB 1203), you do not have the same legal basis to demand rescission. Consult a licensed attorney in your state.