Oro-Medonte council is reviewing its bylaws regarding backyard chickens in residential areas, prompted by a recent survey showing 56% support. The Simcoe County Federation of Agriculture has expressed concerns about avian flu risks to commercial poultry. Staff will prepare a report based on Orillia's successful program for council's decision.
Will Oro-Medonte crack on backyard chicken bylaws?
Barrie
AI Summary
TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️Oro-Medonte council is reviewing its bylaws regarding backyard chickens in residential areas, prompted by a recent survey showing 56% support. The Simcoe County Federation of Agriculture has expressed concerns about avian flu risks to commercial poultry. Staff will prepare a report based on Orillia's successful program for council's decision.
Trending- 1 2016: Staff reviewed zoning policies and recommended allowing up to six hens on smaller rural properties.
- 2 April 29, 2025: Simcoe County Federation of Agriculture sent a letter expressing concerns.
- 3 Recently: Township survey received 127 responses, with 56% supporting backyard chickens.
- 4 Recently: Oro-Medonte council asked staff to review Orillia’s backyard chicken bylaw.
- 5 Wednesday (after July 15, 2025): Staff to prepare a report outlining Orillia's bylaw and recommendations for Oro-Medonte.
- Potential spread of avian flu and infectious laryngotracheitis to commercial poultry operations
- Quarantine of Ontario areas due to avian flu in the past
What: Oro-Medonte council is reviewing and considering changes to its backyard chicken bylaws, potentially allowing them in more residential areas.
When: The topic has been discussed for over a decade; a recent township survey was conducted; a report was presented in 2016; the Simcoe County Federation of Agriculture sent a letter on April 29, 2025; staff will prepare a report on Wednesday (after July 15, 2025).
Where: Oro-Medonte, Simcoe County, Ontario, Canada. Comparisons made to Clearview Township, Parry Sound, Springwater, Newmarket, and the City of Orillia.
Why: To address resident interest (56% support in survey) while balancing concerns from agricultural organizations (Simcoe County Federation of Agriculture) regarding disease spread (avian flu, infectious laryngotracheitis) to commercial poultry operations.
How: Oro-Medonte council asked staff to review Orillia’s backyard chicken bylaw and prepare a report outlining key elements, successes, and recommendations for adaptation in Oro-Medonte.