By Sarah Opdahl

At their Wednesday, July 10 meeting, New Fairfield’s Zoning Commission approved an application to raise goats on residential properties. Working closely with the resident who applied for the regulation, and who has carefully researched nearby towns with allowances for goats, Zoning members were happy to finalize the regulation language.

The regulation permits one goat on any lot of two acres or greater in Residential 44 or 88 Zones. One additional goat may be kept for each additional acre for up to a maximum of four goats, with the understanding that adequate fencing and shelter must be installed and maintained. The goat paddock location must be placed behind the front of the primary dwelling. Any building associated with the keeping of livestock must be located at least fifty feet from  any property line. Odd-shaped lots should work with the Zoning Enforcement Officer Mr. Evan White on placement. Goat paddocks should be less than two-hundred square feet and not impact impervious coverage or take away from square footage of minor accessory structures on the property.

There was some concern about the herding nature of goats and whether a single goat may become lonely and therefore tend toward destruction. However, those fears were assuaged. There was also a discussion about noise associated with goats, and Zoning members were assured that goats do not typically issue loud distress alerts or calls, such as a rooster would.

Commission members had a tough conversation about a petition for an amendment to double the density per lot size or number of bedrooms and overall units per acre in the regulations. Facing State mandates regarding affordable housing, the body is carefully finding their footing in potential regulations changes. They weighed whether to approve the amendment for the particular project that is proposed for the October House property, rather than voting on blanket approval for the Town. The Zoning Commission ultimately issued a continuance to allow more time to continue considering the matter.

Zoning members approved an application by Twisters Ice Cream f or an outdoor eating area with seating for twenty in a 20’x20’ area. They have stipulated that the approval is contingent upon approval from the Health Department. The eating area is inte nded to provide a safe space for people to eat ice cream outdoors, as customers do not currently have one. There will be a pad created and 36” or 42” fencing installed around the perimeter.

The next regular Zoning Commision meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 7, 7:30 p.m.