What the cluck? Georgina approves backyard chicken program

Yorkregion.com
April 25, 2022

With a cluck, cluck here and a cluck, cluck there, Georgina residents can now have backyard chickens.

After a two-year pilot program, the town approved its own backyard hen program. There were 12 participants in the pilot program, which started in 2020, including six in Ward 3.

The backyard hen battle goes back to 2016, when a former Georgina resident lost her backyard chicken coop in a bylaws battle.

Here’s what you need to know about Georgina’s backyard chicken program.

Who can apply?
Any Georgina homeowner who meets the requirements.

The licensee must reside on the property where they hens are kept.

How much does it cost?
$100, a one-time licensing fee.

A maximum of four hens, older than four months are permitted.

Are roosters permitted?
No.

Are there other requirements?
Yes.

Applicants are to also provide a site plan of the property showcasing the proposed location of the hen coop and hen run along with setbacks from neighbouring properties.

The town also requires ID and proof of ownership.

Applicants are also required to sign off on education material provided by the town, which includes several poultry fact sheets from the province’s agriculture, food and rural affairs ministry.

Where are chickens permitted?
Backyard hens are only permitted in the rear yard and must be confined to an enclosed hen coop or hen run at all times.

The town’s bylaw also calls for at least 100-metre separation from another chicken coop.

Backyard hens are not permitted on the following properties: semi-detached homes, townhouse complex, duplex or triplex dwelling, a seasonal home or apartment.

How do I apply for an urban hen license?
Prior to purchasing hens, ensure a licence is approved.

Licence applications are available online and can be submitted to clerks@georgina.ca or dropped off at the Civic Centre, 26557 Civic Centre Rd.

For more information, visit georgina.ca.