The County is revisiting our Animal Control Bylaw in relation to the keeping of backyard chickens to ensure it reflects both current realities along with community values and priorities. We have heard formally and informally from residents who both support and oppose the keeping of chickens.
Where are we at in the process?
We consulted residents who live on less than two acres regarding being allowed to keep chickens. The feedback received was presented to council in a 'What We Heard' report.
Council has directed Administration to implement a permanent chicken program by amending the Animal Control Bylaw for Council’s consideration for lands zoned Country Residential that are less than two acres but not less than one acre and not on lands zoned Country Residential Estates.
Next Steps
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Parkland County is in the process of reviewing six major bylaws, including Animal Control. This work is underway and is scheduled to be completed by mid-2023. Public Engagement will occur on all six bylaws in early 2023 and feedback/input will be reviewed and considered as part of the updates made to the bylaws.
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The changes approved by Council in relation to Chickens on smaller properties will be made as part of this overall bylaw review along with any other changes being made.
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Current bylaw remains in effect at this time until those changes are made.
Background |
What is a backyard chicken?"Backyard chickens" will refer to chickens being kept on smaller parcels of land, less than two acres in size. These are typically within subdivisions and hamlets. In our rural settings, acreages tend to have large, spacious backyards, but the sentiment still applies.ConsiderationsIf Parkland County were to allow backyard chickens, there are several things to consider, including but not limited to:
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