The great backyard chicken debate returns this month

The County of Brant is seeking feedback regarding the development of regulations and guidelines for keeping chickens in residential areas

MEDIA RELEASE - County of Brant, ON – Beginning Tuesday, March 13, 2024, County of Brant residents are invited to provide their valuable input on the development of regulations and guidelines for keeping chickens in residential areas. As the County of Brant prepares regulations for the keeping of chickens in residential areas, through public engagement, we aim to develop regulations and guidelines that balance the interests of residents with the benefits and challenges associated with residential chicken keeping.

“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 County of Brant Director of Enforcement and Regulatory Services, Greg Bergeron. “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.” Key considerations will focus on the development of regulations and guidelines that ensure the responsible keeping of chickens which address concerns related to noise and waste, animal care and welfare, and overall neighborhood aesthetics. The County of Brant invites you to attend a Public Information Meeting at the Planning and Development Committee on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at 6 pm inside the County of Brant Council Chambers (7 Broadway Street West, Paris). The meeting can also be viewed online by visiting wwwbrant ca/Live

In the County of Brant, livestock is currently restricted to agricultural areas, and lots zoned agricultural, following specific guidelines and by-laws. This includes the keeping or raising of backyard chickens. In November 2023 staff completed a report (click here to read it) and it was presented to both the Agricultural Advisory Committee and the Planning and Development Committee expressed support for allowing chickens in all residential areas within the County. There’s been great debate on both sides of the argument. The topic resumes this month during a Planning Committee meeting on March 12th .

We encourage those who are unable to attend the Public Information Meeting to provide comments and questions, and to complete the Chickens in Residential Areas survey, available March 13, 2024 Engagement closes on Friday, March 29, 2024, at 4:30 pm. Visit the Engage Brant website at wwwEngageBrant ca/Chickens to learn more about the project and review project materials. The County of Brant is committed to fostering open dialogue and collaboration within the community. For more information on this and other important engagement opportunities in the County of Brant, please visit www.EngageBrant.ca.