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Urban hens to remain in Lacombe

Nov 28, 2018 | 10:15 AM

Urban hens will be sticking around in Lacombe.

Council has approved the Urban Hen Bylaw, which regulates the keeping of chickens on residential properties. The new bylaw removes restrictions on the number of available licenses and makes the program permanent.

A request from the public in the fall of 2015 seeking permission to house hens at private residences within Lacombe city limits led to the passing of a bylaw allowing 10 urban hen licenses as part of a year-long pilot project. The pilot project began in July 2016 and was later extended to run through Dec. 31 of this year.

“Council recognizes that urban hen-keeping is a growing trend in the region and is supported by many in the community,” says Mayor Grant Creasey. “We are also committed to promoting a healthy, connected and active community, and this program gives residents access to fresh, locally grown food year-round.”