Urban Hen Keeping in the Village of Spring Lake
Are you interested in keeping hens in the Village of Spring Lake? Here’s everything you need to know about applying for a Hen License, regulated under Urban Hen Keeping Bylaw #394.
How to Apply for a Hen License
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Read the Bylaw
Familiarize yourself with Bylaw #394 to understand the rules and regulations for hen keeping. -
Submit Your Application
Complete the application form and include the required supporting documents:- Property owner consent (if applicable).
- Personal information: Name, address, email, and phone number.
- Coop and yard details: Drawings, location plans.
- Proof of training: Certificate from an accredited course.
- Premises Identification Program (PID) Number.
- Proof of neighbour notification: Include dates and addresses where letters were delivered.
Submit your application via:
- In-Person: Village Office at 990 Bauer Ave
- Email: villageoffice@springlakealberta.com
Neighbour Notification
Applicants must notify all adjoining neighbours in writing of their intent to keep hens.
Key Points:
- Notification is required but does not require neighbour approval.
- Neighbours have two weeks to submit concerns to the Village.
Steps for Notification:
- Use the Neighbour Acknowledgement Letter Template.
- Include copies of the letters, along with dates and addresses, in your application.
- Tip: Leave letters at your neighbours' doors and take photos for records.
Coop & Hen Keeping Guidelines
- Location: Coop and run must be in a fenced rear yard, at least 4.57 m (15 ft) from all property lines.
- Size Requirements:
- Coop indoor area: Minimum 0.37 sq. m. (4 sq. ft.) per hen, maximum 9.29 sq. m. (100 sq. ft.).
- Coop run: Minimum 0.93 sq. m. (10 sq. ft.) per hen.
- Hens Only: Roosters are not permitted.
For full guidelines, review Bylaw #394.
Training Requirement
Applicants must complete a recognized hen-keeping course. Options include:
- Alberta Farm Animal Care (AFAC): Small Flock Care Workshop
- River City Chickens: Chickens 101
- Morinville Public School Learning Farm: Urban Chicken Raising
Provincial Registration
All hen owners must register their flock with Alberta Agriculture and obtain a Premises Identification (PID) Number. This helps the province monitor disease outbreaks and livestock locations.
FAQs
Will hens attract wildlife or cause odors?
Proper care prevents wildlife attraction and eliminates odors. Hen manure can be composted or disposed of responsibly.
Are hens noisy?
Hens are quiet, with noise levels similar to a normal conversation.
What happens if my hens get sick?
Follow Alberta Agriculture protocols and notify the Village if there’s a disease outbreak.
Get Started Today!
Apply for your Hen License and enjoy the benefits of responsible urban hen keeping. For questions, contact us at villageoffice@springlakealberta.com.
