Urban Hen Keeping

Hen keeping is a safe, hands-on way to connect with nature and learn more about food and sustainability, right in your own backyard.

Hen keeping in Stony Plain is regulated and enforced under the Non-domestic Animal Bylaw.

Anyone at least 18 years old can apply for an Urban Hen Keeping License and keep a minimum of two and maximum of six hens per property. 

Become a Hen Keeper

Step 1: Know the Regulations  

You are responsible for understanding and following all municipal and provincial hen keeping regulations. The following information explains the rules and expectations for equipment, care, and licensing of hens in Stony Plain. 

• Urban Hen Keeping Guidelines
• Non-domestic Animal Bylaw
• Alberta’s Animal Health Act

Step 2: Learn Hen Keeping

Before applying for a hen keeping license, you must complete a hen keeping course or training from an accepted organization and find an experienced hen keeping mentor. 

Step 2: Get Registered  

Under provincial law, all hen keepers must have a Premise Identification (PID). By registering, you link your hens to a specific location so the province can quickly trace and address disease outbreaks and notify you about emergencies like floods or fires that could affect your hens.  

• Register for a PID

Step 3: Notify Neighbours

You must notify all immediate neighbours (including neighbours attached to your property or across an alleyway) in writing of your intent to keep hens. If your neighbouring properties are apartment buildings, churches, businesses, or other non-residential properties send your letters to the building manager or business owner.

This is not  asking neighbours for permission, it is a notification of your intent to apply for a licence and keep hens on your property.

Your neighbours have two weeks to respond to the Town of Stony Plain with any concerns.

• Notification Letter Template

Step 4: Apply for an Urban Hen Keeping Licence 

Collect the following information, fill out the application form below, and send everything in electronically:

• PID
• Copies of the neighbour notification letters (include the date and addresses the letters were sent to, do not submit your application until you have given your neighbours two weeks to respond)
• Drawing or site plan of the coop* location in relation to lot lines, dwellings, garages, sheds, and other structures
• Proof of completion of an accepted hen keeping course or training
• Proof of mentorship with an experienced hen keeper
• If you are not the property owner, a signed letter of permission from the owner.
• Payment – a first-year application and licence is $150 and annual renewals are $25

*If you plan on hardwiring your coop to provide power for lights, heating, etc. you need to apply for an electrical permit.

Urban Hen Keeping License Application

Food Safety

Eggs from backyard hens should be for personal use. Keepers must follow provincial and federal regulations for animal health and food safety to protect themselves and the community.

Selling Products: Keepers may sell eggs and other products to friends and family. If keepers want to sell products at a market or event, they must comply with relevant regulations such as a business licence or insurance. 

Complaints

Complaints can be made to the Town’s Bylaw Enforcement online Report a Problem, or contact enforcement@stonyplain.com, 780-963-2151. The Town will respond to all complaints and investigate when warranted.

Enforcement

Failing to comply with the terms and conditions of an Urban Hen Keeping Licence may result in a fine of $250, or a licence being revoked. Keeping hens without a licence will result in a $250 fine. 

Resources

• River City Chickens
• Heritage Chick Program at the Poultry Research Centre, University of Alberta
• How to Prevent and Detect Disease in Backyard Flocks and Pet Birds
• Raising Chickens in Alberta: A Guide for Small Flock Owners 
• How to Protect Your Flock from Avian Influenza 

Contact

If you have questions about Urban Hen Keeping contact planning@stonyplain.com or call 780-963-8598.