Prohibited in Urban/Suburban Zones: Residents in the city proper cannot keep chickens.
Rural Exceptions: Chickens are permitted in certain rural or agricultural zones.
Complaint-Based Enforcement: Bylaw enforcement is driven by complaints. If you keep chickens illegally and a neighbor complains, you will be required to rehome them.
No Roosters: Even in areas where they are allowed, roosters are generally banned due to noise.
Why They Are Banned
The City of Ottawa has cited several reasons for restricting urban chickens:
Health & Safety: Potential for attracting predators (coyotes, foxes) and vermin (rats).
Nuisance: Noise, odour, and waste management issues.
Animal Welfare: Concerns over the proper care and long-term commitment required for the birds.
Considerations for Rural Areas (Where Allowed)
If you live in a rural area that permits them:
Winter Care: Chickens need a secure, draft-free, and insulated coop. You may need to use heat lamps (with caution) or heated waterers to prevent freezing.
Predator Protection: The coop must be secure from wildlife.
Lifespan: Hens can live for 5-10 years, though they stop laying regularly after a few years.
Surrounding Areas
Gatineau: Allows laying hens in backyards with a licence (no roosters).
Carleton Place: Allows up to six hens with a license.
Russell Township: Allows up to three hens in urban areas and five in rural areas, pending approval.