Chickens in Residential Areas

In the County of Brant, livestock is currently restricted to agricultural areas and lots zoned agricultural, following specific guidelines and by-laws. This includes the keeping or raising of backyard chickens.

In November 2023 a completed staff report was presented to the Agricultural Advisory Committee and the Planning and Development Committee. The committee directed staff to investigate Option 3 of Staff’s report, Chickens in Residential Areas (RPT-0454-23), to permit chickens within all residential areas and zones subject to specific regulations specified by By-Law, licensing and property inspection, and public engagement prior to amendments taking effect.

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Disclaimer: Agricultural areas of the County of Brant will be exempt from regulations, licensing program, and fees outlined within this report. Properties classified as farm property class lands pursuant to the Assessment Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. A.31 are permitted to keep and raise livestock in accordance with Provincial Minimum Distance Setback (MDS) Guidelines, the County of Brant Comprehensive Zoning By-Law 61-16, County’s Animal Control By-Law 174-10, and building permit where applicable.