The Guelph/Eramosa Township Council finds itself divided over the question of whether backyard chickens should be permitted in areas beyond larger agricultural zones. However, they have taken the step of requesting a report from their staff to consider allowing them in smaller agricultural zones and rural residential areas at a later date.
Currently, in Guelph/Eramosa, hens are classified as livestock and are only allowed on agriculturally zoned properties that are two acres or larger in size. The council’s committee of the whole convened to discuss an information report on backyard chickens and pigeons on smaller agricultural lots and residential areas during a recent meeting. The objective was to seek guidance on how to proceed with this issue.
The committee reached a consensus that hens should be permitted on smaller agricultural lots, and some council members argued that they should also be allowed in rural residential areas. Their rationale was that many individuals who desire to keep backyard chickens may already be doing so in violation of existing regulations.
Coun. Corey Woods expressed his perspective, saying, “I drive through Ariss, I see chickens today that are not legal but they’re running around there. So if chickens are in Ariss, who cares?” Coun. Bruce Dickieson shared a similar sentiment, mentioning that he wouldn’t mind allowing chickens on smaller lots, although he had reservations about larger residential areas.
Coun. Steven Liebig drew a parallel with the cannabis issue, suggesting that those who want to keep chickens are likely already doing so. Mayor Chris White, while open to the idea of permitting chickens on smaller agricultural lots, raised concerns about potential objections from residents who may not appreciate having chickens as neighbors.
Mayor White also pointed out that there is significant apprehension surrounding avian flu, particularly considering the township’s substantial agricultural industry. He noted that in the past, calls from poultry farms requested that the council refrain from permitting backyard chickens. The fear is that people who initially acquire chickens may lose interest, leading to health issues for the birds and potential risks to local livestock.
The committee ultimately decided not to pursue changes to its pigeon-keeping bylaw due to the rarity of complaints in this regard. They directed their staff to prepare a report on allowing backyard hens in smaller agricultural lots and rural residential areas, where the council will make a final decision on the matter at a later date. This complex issue continues to spark debate within the Guelph/Eramosa community, reflecting the diverse viewpoints and concerns of its residents.
