Committee amends By-laws to regulate backyard chickens in West Lincoln

West Lincoln’s Growth and Sustainability Committee approved amendments to the Township’s Zoning and Animal Care and Control By-laws at last night’s meeting, which will permit and regulate backyard chickens in residential zones of hamlet settlement areas and in the agricultural area. Backyard chickens will continue to be prohibited within the urban area of Smithville.

These By-law amendments will come into effect immediately following Council ratification, which is expected to occur at the regular Council meeting on Monday, February 24, 2025.

Background

Monday’s decision is nearly a year-and-a-half in the making, with the matter originally having been brought to Committee on September 11, 2023, in the form of a request for a small number of hens to be deemed household pets to be allowed to be kept in urban and residential communities. At that time, the keeping of livestock, including backyard chickens, was not permitted on residential properties anywhere in West Lincoln.

In addition to research, consultation with relevant agencies, including the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and an environmental scan and comparison of areas in and outside Niagara, input from the public was also gathered for consideration. Public consultation included a survey (January 9 – March 15, 2024), a public consultation meeting (February 12, 2024), a statutory public meeting (October 15, 2024) along with written comments submitted through the Clerk. Results of an independent public petition, orchestrated by a Smithville resident, were also considered.

Regulation and enforcement

Regulations for backyard chickens in the residential areas that will be permitted include, but are not limited to, a maximum quantity of six hens, stipulations for enclosure size and location, animal care and manure storage and disposal. The slaughter or processing of backyard chickens is prohibited on site. Roosters are also prohibited. Please refer to the amendments to the Zoning By-law and Animal Care and Control By-law for full regulations.

Licensing will not be required for those wishing to keep backyard chickens in residential areas that will be permitted. Enforcement will be carried out on a complaint basis through the Niagara SPCA and Humane Society. Failure to comply with regulations for backyard chickens will result in a $250 fine.

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Quote:

“It was clear very early on that there was no easy answer when exploring the matter of backyard chickens. We knew that those on all sides of the discussion were very passionate, and we understood the importance of taking our time to hear and consider all input to determine what would be best for West Lincoln. I am pleased with the comprehensive process we have undertaken and am confident that the regulations we have landed on are appropriate for our community. Thank you to everyone who took the time to get involved and provide feedback throughout this process. Your input has been incredibly valuable.”

Mayor Cheryl Ganann