Urban Chicken Registration

We allow urban landowners in the Town of Saugeen Shores to properly keep up to five hens on their property, provided they do so in accordance with our Chicken By-law. This By-law outlines the regulations for keeping chickens on urban properties to ensure the health, safety, and enjoyment of our community.

Program Regulations and Coop Locations

The Chicken By-law only regulates the keeping of hens in urban areas. All agricultural or rural areas of the Town may continue to raise hens in accordance with good farming practices.

Urban landowners must be located on properties zoned R1, R2 and PD that are at least 1,000 m² in area to register. The landowner must reside on the property where the hens are kept.

Hens and their coops must be located in the rear yard and be at least 1.5 m from all property lines and at least 5 m from any dwelling on an adjacent property.

Restrictions

You may not keep more than five hens or any roosters on your property. It is not permitted to sell eggs or any other chicken related products, and you must not butcher or slaughter hens.

Maintenance

You must keep your coop well maintained and free of rodents, in accordance with the by-law.

How to Register

• Complete the Chicken By-law Registry Form by downloading a copy online or completing a paper copy at the municipal office.
• Submit your completed form in-person to the municipal office, email your form to the Town or fax your form to 519-832-2140.
• Our staff will contact you to confirm your placement on the registry within 10 business days after we receive your application.