Support amending the Township of Alnwick-Haldimand Backyard Hens By-Law to allow backyard hens on all lot sizes in the Hamlet Residential Zone

My family and I are asking the Council of the Township of Alnwick-Haldimand to amend Section 4.4.2 of the Township's Backyard Hen By-law by removing the current one-acre minimum lot size requirement for properties within the Hamlet Residential (HR) Zone.

This proposed amendment is limited in scope. It would allow residents on HR-zoned properties of all lot sizes to keep backyard hens, provided they continue to comply with all existing regulations, including limits on the number of hens, the prohibition of roosters, coop and setback requirements, sanitation standards, and responsible animal care requirements.

Responsible backyard hen keeping is determined by proper care, management, and compliance with the by-law—not by the size of a property. Many families successfully keep small flocks of hens on lots smaller than one acre using secure enclosed coops and runs with little impact on neighbouring properties.

The current by-law excludes many Hamlet Residential (HR) properties that are otherwise suitable for responsibly keeping backyard hens. I am respectfully requesting that Council amend Section 4.4.2 to allow backyard hens on all HR-zoned properties, regardless of lot size, while maintaining all existing regulations related to animal welfare, sanitation, setbacks, nuisance prevention, and responsible ownership. This amendment would provide more HR-zoned residents with the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of backyard hens, including fresh eggs, local food production, sustainability, and greater household food security.

I've been approved to delegate before Council on July 28th 2026.

Please sign this petition with full name to show your support for backyard hens on all sized lots in Hamlet Residential Zones and support local families in their quest for sustainability and self-sufficiency by signing this petition. 

Please note: By signing this petition, you understand that your name and any information collected as part of your signature may be submitted to  Council as part of this petition. Petition materials submitted to Council may become part of the public record and may be publicly accessible in accordance with applicable laws and Council procedures.