Backyard Chickens

Ken Hook | Feb 13, 2025

In response to last week's letter (January 30th issue) on Backyard Chickens, the new Addington Highlands bylaw is not about invading people's freedom but protecting neighbours' freedoms. It is well known that more than 26 cities in Ontario allow backyard chickens under restrictions. Most, if not all, of these cities have municipal water supplies.

The hamlets of Addington Highlands do not have municipal water. Hamlet residents have dug wells, sand points, or drilled wells. Our water tables (aquifers) are sensitive and must be protected from contamination; therefore, livestock in hamlets have been prohibited in the past.

With a growing desire to allow chickens in hamlets, Council has taken a guarded approach to allowing up to six chickens under certain restrictions. Outside the hamlets, the restrictions are much less stringent.

The coop restrictions are to protect the barnyard flocks from 1) wandering to neighbouring properties and 2) to protect the flocks from wild bird contamination. Contact with wild birds sharing feeders and waterers increases the risk of disease. Following the coop recommendations will better protect the chickens. Diseases such as avian influenza, although not a local concern, are growing more widespread in North America. Taking precautions at the onset is our best defence to avoid future problems. 

As a response to Rev. J. Machaj regarding why there is a regulation on chickens and why not one for dogs and cats, the number of dogs and cats has been regulated for decades in Addington Highlands and most other Townships. Visit the Township website or call the office for details.