Domestic Poultry

Domestic Poultry Regulations in the Township of Guelph/Eramosa

Overview

The Township of Guelph/Eramosa has enacted regulations to govern the keeping of domestic poultry to ensure public health, safety, and environmental well-being. These regulations apply to properties under 0.8 hectares (2 acres) and outline responsibilities for poultry owners, property requirements, coop standards, and enforcement provisions.

Who Can Keep Domestic Poultry?

  • The property must be at least one acre in size.

  • The property must be zoned Agricultural (A) or Rural Residential (RR).

  • The poultry owner must reside on the property.

  • If the owner is not the property owner, written permission from the property owner is required.

General Regulations

  • Domestic poultry must be secured in a coop between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

  • Poultry must be kept in an enclosed outdoor run when outside the coop.

  • Slaughtering of poultry at home is prohibited; disposal of deceased birds must follow proper procedures.

  • Sale of eggs, manure, or other poultry-related products is not allowed.

  • Owners must provide proper food, water, shelter, ventilation, and veterinary care.

  • Owners must review educational resources on poultry care, including OMAFRA guidelines.

Allowed and Prohibited Poultry

  • A maximum of 10 birds per property.

  • Roosters and male ducks are strictly prohibited.

  • Allowed poultry types: chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys.

Coop & Outdoor Run Requirements

  • Location Restrictions:

    • Cannot be located in front yards.

    • Must be at least 5 meters from dwellings and 3 meters from property lines and structures.

    • Must be at least 15 meters from schools and 7.5 meters from churches or businesses.

  • Construction Standards:

    • Weatherproof with proper ventilation.

    • Built to prevent rodents and predators.

    • Must include nest boxes, perches, and proper space for poultry.

  • Size Limits:

    • Maximum coop size: 10 m²

    • Maximum height: 2.43 meters (8 feet)

  • Maintenance:

    • Coops must be clean, sanitary, and free of vermin.

    • No more than 3 ft³ of manure can be stored on-site at any time.

    • Food must be stored in rodent-proof containers.

Enforcement & Penalties

  • Inspections:

    • By-law officers may inspect properties to ensure compliance.

  • Penalties:

    • Violations are subject to fines and legal action under the Provincial Offences Act.

    • Orders issued by the Township must be complied with immediately.

  • Right of Entry:

    • Township officials have the authority to enter properties for inspections.

Contact Information

For further details or questions, please contact the Township of Guelph/Eramosa By-law Enforcement Department.

Phone: 519-856-9596 ext. 121
Email: bylaw@get.on.ca