NORFOLK, Neb. -- After weeks of discussion the Norfolk City Council voted in favor of amending the city code allowing for livestock birds to be raised in town.

The measure was initially brought forward to the council last month, with a majority of council members in favor of the change.

However, due to some opposition, (five council members in favor and three opposed) the motion had to be passed on separate readings.

Monday's decision finalized the amendment with the vote staying the same from previous readings.

The amendment will now allow chickens, hens, bantam hens, and ducks inside city limits, so long as their owners obtain valid permits.

To obtain the permit residents will need permission from adjacent neighbors and 75% of surrounding neighbors. Without this permission, residents will be unable to keep birds in town.

Voting in favor was council members, Justin Webb, Andrew McCarthy, Thad Murren, Justin Snorton, and Shane Clausen. Voting in opposition were Kory Hildebrand, Frank Arens, and Corey Granquist.