An Urban Hens Pilot Program (Pilot Program) is being considered to allow for keeping backyard hens, subject to compliance with the term and conditions of a two-year Pilot Program. Urban hens have become a growing trend across North America. In an effort to be more involved in their food production, many urban residents across Canada have opted to raise and keep hens in their backyards.

The Pilot Program, if approved, would establish a limit of six (6) female hens, four months or older, for properties under 10,000 square feet. For properties over 10,000 square feet, an additional hen would be permitted per 3,000 square feet up to a maximum of twelve (12) hens.

Owners desirous of keeping urban hens would need to complete the Pilot Program registration form, meet all of the eligibility requirements and submit an annual license fee of $25.00. An on-site inspection of the property to assess and ensure compliance with the terms and conditions outlined in the Pilot Program and registration form would be conducted by the Town, prior to issuing a license and urban hen identification bands.

The Pilot Program will be evaluated to determine whether it may continue beyond the two-year pilot. A copy of report CS-2019-36 respecting the Pilot Program, together with the draft registration form is available below.

A Public Information Centre (PIC) has been scheduled to receive comments from Tecumseh residents on the proposed Pilot Program. The PIC will be held:

Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2019
Time: 3:00 – 5:00 pm and 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Where: Tecumseh Town Hall Council Chambers,917 Lesperance Road, Tecumseh, ON

Comments and information regarding this Pilot Program are being collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.

Urban Hen Licensing Pilot Program

Urban Hen Licensing Pilot Program Application