Backyard Chickens

Although Council endorsed a Backyard Chicken Pilot Program in February 2020, backyard chickens are not currently permitted in Springwater. A public meeting, followed by approval of a temporary use by-law and licensing by-law regulating backyard chickens must be completed by Council before the pilot program can move forward. Due to the ongoing public health crisis (COVID-19), all public meetings have been postponed. Notice will be issued when the meetings have been scheduled.

Background information

Currently, our Official Plan and Zoning By-law require all new livestock uses, including chickens, to be located on agriculturally zoned properties. Those properties must have a minimum lot area of 35 hectares (86.5 acres) and are subject to a Minimum Distance Separation (MDS) formula to mitigate offsite impacts. Backyard chickens on non-farm lots in Springwater are prohibited outright and enforced by the Township’s By-law Department.

If the Township changes the way in which backyard chickens are regulated, amendments to the Township’s land use documents and Animal Control By-law would be required.

Reports to Council

• February 5, 2020
• September 18, 2019
• July 3, 2019