By: Mike Su, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Chatham-Kent residents in eligible residential zones can now keep backyard hens under a new two-year pilot program approved at the November 4, 2024, council meeting.
Residents in Rural Residential and Village Residential zones can apply for a Hen Permit, allowing them to keep up to 10 hens per property, while roosters remain prohibited. The initial permit fee is $400, with a $125 renewal cost. Agricultural properties are unaffected, as they already permit hens and roosters without a permit. However, the Erieau community is excluded from the bylaw.
The program aims to test the feasibility of backyard chickens in specific areas while evaluating potential benefits and concerns.
The initiative stems from discussions started in July 2023, during which council considered a broader backyard chicken program, enforcement levels, and public health implications. Proponents of backyard chickens cite benefits like improved food security, sustainability, and educational opportunities. However, concerns include the spread of diseases and neighbourhood disturbances.
Chatham-Kent Public Health opposes expanding backyard chicken programs into urban areas, warning of risks like Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli, and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Improper chicken management could also attract pests and predators, such as rats, raccoons, and coyotes, posing challenges for neighbourhoods.
PAWR (Pet and Wildlife Rescue), the municipality’s animal control provider, will enforce the program. Council will review the program after two years to determine if it should be expanded, modified, or discontinued.
Under the Protection of Livestock and Poultry from Dogs Act, municipalities are responsible for compensating chicken owners if their hens are injured or killed by dogs.
Residents in eligible zones can visit the Chatham-Kent municipal website for more information on applying for a Hen Permit.
