The County of Brant wants to know how residents feel about keeping chickens in residential areas.
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Regulations and guidelines are to be developed that aim to strike a balance between the benefits and challenges of the practice, and how it may impact neighborhood aesthetics in terms of noise, waste, and animal care.
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“As urban agriculture gains popularity and communities explore sustainable practices, the idea of allowing chickens in residential areas is becoming a reality within the county,” said Greg Bergeron, director of enforcement and regulatory services. “Public feedback will play a crucial role in shaping potential regulations for keeping chickens in residential areas and we are encouraging all residents to participate in this important process.”
Residents are invited to attend a public information meeting of the Planning and Development Committee on Tuesday, March 12 at 6 pm inside Brant County council chambers at 7 Broadway Street West in Paris. The meeting can be viewed online at brant.ca/live.
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For those unable to attend, a chickens in residential areas survey will be available March 13 that must be completed by 4:30 pm on March 29.
Information and project materials can be reviewed by visiting engagebrant.ca/chickens.
In the City of Brantford, residents wishing to raise chickens in their backyards are required to pay a $100 fee to apply for a permit.
Brantford’s bylaw regarding the keeping of chickens stipulates that a maximum of 10 chickens – including one rooster – is allowed and must be housed in a properly maintained coop.
The chicken coop must not be located in a front or side yard and is to be no less than 7.5 meters from structures on other lots. A proper floor, ventilation, and windows or hardware wire covered openings are required to protect against predators.
Straw, pine, or leaf bedding is needed to diminish odors and regular cleaning is also a requirement, as are perches and nesting boxes for hens to lay eggs.
A municipal law enforcement officer will conduct an inspection to ensure compliance.
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