Chickens in a field

Background

As a result of a request presented to the Township's Planning/Building/Environmental Committee on September 11, 2023, Township Staff facilitated public discussion and collected feedback regarding the appropriateness of permitting chickens on a small scale basis accessory to residential use. This is often referred to as “backyard chickens.”

A variety of scenarios were given consideration, including the appropriateness of backyard chickens on residential lots in Smithville, residential lots in hamlets and residential lots in the agricultural area.

Supporters of backyard chickens have cited benefits related to mental health, sustainability, food quality, ethical animal treatment and alleviation of poverty. Those who oppose backyard chickens have focused on concerns relating to disease, odour, noise and potential for attracting predators.

A proposed by-law was drafted and proposed amendments to the animal control by-law (By-law 2023-54) were made for consideration of specific regulations to limit the number of chickens, identify where backyard chickens are permitted in the Township, stipulate the location of the coop, run and manure storage and disposal of waste. These were presented as a technical report at the October 15 Planning / Building / Environmental Committee meeting.

Public consultation

In order to determine what is best for West Lincoln, the matter of backyard chickens requires input from many individuals and organizations. 

  1. The first round of public consultation included an online survey, which ran from January 9 to March 15, 2024, (paper copies of which were also available at Township facilities) and a Public Consultation Meeting that was held on February 12, 2024.
  2. The second round of public consultation included a Public Meeting held on October 15, 2024, to allow for additional public feedback about the proposed new by-law and proposed amendments to the Animal Control By-law.

Next steps: A recommendation report will be submitted to a future Planning / Building / Environmental Committee meeting once all public and agency comments have been taken into account and a full review has been completed.

Members of the public will be able to provide further comment on the recommendation(s) outlined in the report. Advance notice of this matter coming back to the Committee will be given through the Township website and social media channels.

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