Following Council approval at the February 11, 2020 meeting, Tecumseh’s Urban Hens Licensing Pilot Program (Pilot Program) will begin March 1, 2020 and residents interested in applying for a permit may do so via the online form at tecumseh.ca/en/living-here/animal-services.aspx. Permit approval is subject to compliance with the terms and conditions of the two-year Pilot Program and outlined on the website.

“Urban hens have become a growing trend across North America and residents have told us they want to raise and keep hens in their backyards,” said Gary McNamara, Mayor of Tecumseh. “This two-year pilot program was the result of extensive research into what other municipalities are doing and consultation with residents.”

The two-year Pilot Program allows a limit of six (6) female hens for properties under 10,000 square feet. For properties over 10,000 square feet, an additional hen is permitted per 3,000 square feet up to a maximum of twelve (12) hens. Property owners interested in keeping urban hens need to complete the Pilot Program registration form, meet all of the eligibility requirements and submit an annual license fee of $25.00. A completed registration form and on-site inspection of the property by the Town’s Building Department to assess and ensure compliance with the terms and conditions outlined in the Pilot Program are required prior to approving the license and issuing urban hen identification bands.

The registration form for the Pilot Program may be completed and submitted online on the Town’s website. Hard copies are also available at the Town Hall Office during regular office hours, Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. The temporary Town Hall entrance is off McNorton Street.

The Pilot Program will be evaluated to determine whether it may continue beyond the two-year pilot.

Further Pilot Program details can be found on the Town’s website, or by contacting 519-735-2184 Ext. 143.

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Media Contact:                                                                                          

Laura Moy                                                                  

Director Corporate Services & Clerk                            

519-735-2184 Ext. 116    

Program Contact

Christina Hebert

Manager Committee & Community Services

519-735-2184 Ext. 143