Brock approves backyard hens

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

BROCK: Residents of Brock Township can now legally keep backyard hens, following the approval of a new by-law by the Township Council. The amendment to the existing "Exotic Animal By-law" permits up to four hens in Rural Residential (RR) and Hamlet Residential (HR) zones, marking a significant shift in local policy.

Previously, the Township's zoning regulations restricted livestock to Rural (RU) and Rural Buffer (RB) zones. However, growing interest in sustainable living and local food production led Council to revisit its policies. Following a resolution, in July of 2024, staff were directed to draft regulations accommodating backyard hens.

The bylaw was passed in late October, allowing residents, in specified zones, to keep hens, while maintaining strict standards to ensure health, safety, and neighbourhood harmony.

Under the new rules for backyard hens, the recently passed bylaw will allow residents to keep up to four hens per property. Roosters remain prohibited. Hens must be housed in a designated coop and run, located in the rear yard, at least three meters from any dwelling and two meters from property lines. Coops and runs must meet size and maintenance standards, with coops offering 0.37 square meters of space per hen and runs providing at least 0.93 square meters per hen.

To prevent nuisances and maintain cleanliness, the bylaw includes detailed provisions, including: coops must be locked at night; cleaned regularly, to avoid odours and pests, and feed must be stored in rodent-proof containers. The sale of eggs and manure is prohibited, and any manure must be composted or removed appropriately.

Bylaw officers are empowered to issue orders for non-compliance, and penalties range from $350 to $10,000, depending on the severity of the violation. Property owners may also face remedial costs, if the Township intervenes.

The bylaw has received mixed reactions. Supporters praise it as a step toward sustainability and self-sufficiency, while critics express concerns about potential noise, odours, and enforcement challenges.

Local resident Sarah Edwards, an advocate for urban agriculture, shared her excitement: “Backyard hens are a great way to teach kids about food sources, while reducing reliance on commercial products. This bylaw is a win for families like mine.”

Brock Township joins other Ontario municipalities embracing backyard hens, reflecting a growing trend toward sustainable urban living. With the new regulations, residents can enjoy fresh eggs, while adhering to clear rules designed to balance innovation and community well-being.