Urban Hens In Barrhead

URBAN HENS IN BARRHEAD

backyard hens & chicken coops


The Town of Barrhead now allows residents to keep backyard hens through the Urban Hen Permit Program under Animal Control Bylaw No. 01-2026.

This program allows residents to keep a small number of hens for personal enjoyment and egg production while ensuring they are kept safely, responsibly, and in a way that respects neighbouring properties.

Urban hens can be a rewarding way to connect with food production and sustainable living while maintaining the character of Barrhead's neighbourhoods.


who can keep urban hens?

Residents may keep between 2 and 6 hens on their property with an approved Urban Hen Permit.

Important rules include:

  • A permit is required
  • Roosters and other poultry/birds are not permitted (e.g., duck, goose, turkey, etc.)
  • Hens must be 16 weeks or older
  • Hens must remain within a coop and enclosed run
  • Hens cannot roam freely

Urban hens are permitted for personal use only.

Selling eggs, manure, meat or other hen products is not permitted.


permit requirements

Before receiving an Urban Hen Permit, applicants must:

  • Be 18 years of age or older
  • Be the property owner or have written permission from the owner
  • Notify adjacent property owners
  • Complete an approved hen-keeping course
  • Obtain a Premise Identification Number (PID) from the Government of Alberta
  • Submit a site plan showing the coop and run location

The Urban Hen Permit is $50 per year.


coop and run requirements

To ensure hens are kept safely and responsibly, all coops and runs must meet minimum standards.

location

  • minimum 0.9m (3ft) from property lines
  • Minimum 3m (9.8ft) from neighbouring dwellings

coop requirements

  • Minimum 0.37m2 per hen
  • Maximum coop size 10m2
  • Proper ventilation
  • Nesting boxes (1 per 3 - 4 hens)
  • Roosting space for hens

run requirements

  • Minimum 1.3 m² per hen
  • Fully enclosed and predator resistant constructed with secure galvanized fencing.


caring for urban hens

Urban hen owners are responsible for maintaining proper care and cleanliness.

Owners must:

  • Keep coops clean and sanitary
  • Provide safe winter housing
  • Ensure hens have access to food, water, and shelter
  • Use veterinary services if hens become ill
  • Dispose of deceased hens according to provincial regulations

Hens must remain confined to their coop and run and cannot roam freely.


steps to apply for an urban hen permit

Step 1
Complete an accredited hen-keeping course such as Chickens 101.

Step 2
Apply for a Premises Identification Number (PID) through the Government of Alberta.

Step 3
 Notify adjacent neighbours of your intent to keep hens.

Step 4
Prepare a site plan showing the location of the coop and run.

Step 5
Submit your application, site plan and the $50 permit fee to the Town of Barrhead.

Applications can be submitted:


apply for a permit

Residents interested in keeping urban hens can apply by completing the Urban Hen Permit Application.

Apply Now →


faq

No. Roosters, turkeys, geese, ducks and other fowl are not permitted within the Town of Barrhead.

No. Hens must remain with a secure coop and enclosed run.

No. Eggs and other hen products cannot be sold.

Residents must ensure hens are kept responsibly. Failure to follow permit conditions or bylaw requirements may result in enforcement action.