Your Guide to Responsible Backyard Chicken Keeping in Petawawa
The Town of Petawawa permits residents to keep backyard chickens on eligible residential properties, subject to the regulations outlined in the Backyard Chickens By-law. These regulations are in place to help ensure the well-being of the animals, maintain neighbourhood compatibility, and support public health and safety.
Residents interested in keeping backyard chickens must meet the requirements of the by-law and obtain a licence from the Town before bringing chickens onto their property.
Backyard Chicken Regulations
If you are interested in keeping backyard chickens in Petawawa, here are the main rules to know:
- Hens Only – Roosters are not allowed.
- Number of Chickens
- Up to 6 hens are allowed on properties smaller than 1 acre.
- Up to 12 hens are allowed on properties 1 acre or larger.
- Eligible Properties – Backyard chickens are only permitted on residential zoned properties with an existing dwelling. NOTE: The Backyard Chickens By-law does not apply to lands zoned Rural.Â
- Multi-Unit Properties Not Permitted – Chickens are not permitted at apartments, condominiums, duplexes, townhomes, or other multi-unit residential properties.
- Chicken Coop Size – If the coop is larger than 108 square feet, a building permit will be required.
- You Must Live at the Property – The person applying for the licence must live where the chickens are kept.
- Follow Other Laws – Backyard chicken owners must also follow any applicable provincial and federal regulations.
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For full details, please review the Backyard Chickens By-law.
Licensing Requirements
Residents must obtain a licence from the Town of Petawawa before keeping backyard chickens.
How to Apply
To apply for a licence, submit a completed application form to the Town along with a sketch or site plan showing:
The proposed coop, shelter, and/or run
The location on the property
The distance from property lines
The distance from other structures on the property
Additional Requirements
The licence holder must live at the property where the chickens are kept.
Tenants must provide written permission from the property owner.
Licence Fee
The fee for a Backyard Chicken Licence is $50.00, payable at the time the application is submitted at Town Hall. Accepted methods of payment are cash, debit, or cheque. Please note that applications will not be processed until the licence fee has been paid.
Change in Ownership or Tenancy
Backyard chicken licences are not transferable. If the ownership or occupancy of the property changes, a new licence application must be submitted.
Get Your Flock Started: Forms & Guides
Residents can find the Backyard Chickens Application, information sheet, and a site plan form below to assist with completing the application. The application package can be downloaded and printed. Completed and signed applications may be submitted in person at Town Hall, emailed to our office, or dropped in the Town’s night deposit box. Please note the $50.00 licence fee must be paid at Town Hall. Once the completed application and payment are received, it will be processed by our office.
Once approved, the Town will contact the applicant to advise that their Backyard Chicken licence is ready for pick up. The licence must be signed by the original applicant when they attend Town Hall to collect it.
Application & Forms
Still Have Questions? We’re Happy to Help
If you have questions about the application or licensing process, please contact our office by phone or email.
For concerns about backyard chickens or to report an issue, please contact the Town’s By-Law Enforcement.