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.
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.
Considerations
If Parkland County were to allow backyard chickens, there are several things to consider, including but not limited to:
- What are the maximum number of chickens and other conditions that we need to consider?
- Only hens, no roosters
- Coop/housing standards or requirements
- Education component requirements
- Should there be adjacent neighbour support before allowance is made?
- Should the County limit the number of properties less than 2 acres in size allowed to keep chickens?
- What might the impacts be of this potential allowance to residents and the Municipality?
| Pros |
|---|
- Therapeutic benefits of having a pet
- Food source
- Can reduce food waste as tables scraps can be fed to chickens
- Waste could be used as fertilizer
- Educational opportunity on agriculture and sustainability
| Cons |
|---|
- Noise
- Smell, animal waste
- Increased predation
- Disease concerns
- Disposal of animals when they become sick or no longer produce eggs
- Associated municipal costs
Where are we at in the process?
We are seeking input from the public on their opinion on keeping backyard chickens. Upon receiving feedback, Administration will present the information to Council, who will decide whether or not changes are required to the bylaw.
We're looking to hear from residents who live on less than two acres on their thoughts on being allowed to keep chickens on these smaller parcels of land..
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