Backyard Chickens - Kitchener

Registration

There is a one-time $50 fee to register, followed by inspection to ensure that all requirements are met. Registration applications are available on the City of Kitchener's Community Bylaws webpage.

Chicken Coop

A backyard coop can contain up to a maximum of 4 chickens none of which may be roosters. An adequate chicken coop will allow hens to be warm and dry during winter, will provide proper ventilation, will protect the hens from predators (eg. raccoons), and will prevent the spread of animal-transmitted infectious diseases.

Kitchener Rules and Regulations

• Maximum of 4 hens (no roosters) in the backyard NOT the front yard of a property that is NOT multi-residential like an apartment building

• Coop must be located at least 2.5 m from the side lot line or neighbours must consent to the backyard chickens and submit a consent form

• Coop must be 1.2 m from the rear lot line and 2.5 m from the rear lot line to an abutting side yard

• Chickens must be enclosed on the residential property

• All chickens must have ID bands linking to the owner's registration number

• Sales of egg, manure, & other products, as well as slaughter, are prohibited