In recent months, the Town of Kindersley has seen an increase in inquiries about keeping chickens within town limits. While some residents are eager to raise their own backyard flock, Kindersley’s bylaws clearly outline where and how chickens can be kept—and the penalties for those who don’t follow the rules.
Let’s break it down:
The *Bylaw to Provide for the Care and Control of Animals, Bees, Livestock, and Poultry* defines a “pet” as a domesticated or tamed animal kept as a companion, not for profit, and not customarily raised for human consumption. According to this definition, chickens—traditionally raised for their eggs and meat—do not qualify as pets in Kindersley.
So, what does this mean for would-be chicken keepers? Chickens are only allowed in the RA (Residential Acreage) and UR (Urban Reserve) zones of the town, and even then, residents are limited to a maximum of five birds. Additionally, those who wish to raise chickens must have proper fencing in place to ensure the animals remain secure.
For residents living outside of these specific zones, the answer is clear: chickens are not permitted. Attempting to raise chickens outside the RA or UR zones could result in fines as steep as $1,000.
While chickens might seem like a fun addition to a backyard garden, the town’s bylaws emphasize that certain areas are simply not suitable for raising poultry. The restrictions are in place to maintain the balance between urban living and the needs of the community, as well as ensuring that health and safety standards are upheld.
Residents interested in raising chickens within the proper zones should familiarize themselves with the full bylaws and ensure their setup meets the town’s requirements. If you're outside these zones, it’s important to explore other pet options that fit within Kindersley’s regulations.
So, for now, if you’re thinking about starting a backyard flock in Kindersley—check your zoning before you let those feathers fly!