By Radha Agarwal, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Prince Rupert Northern View
June 12, 2025
City staff are considering possibly permitting Rupert residents to own backyard chickens to support sustainable living and boost local food production.
On June 9, the city council passed a motion introduced by Coun. Teri Forster. This motion requires staff to review the potential introduction of a backyard chicken bylaw for the community. The review will assess the challenges, considerations, and probable costs associated with the bylaw.
Additionally, staff will analyze how chicken waste management will be handled and what measures will be necessary for bylaw enforcement.
In her submission, Forster emphasized the potential benefits of permitting backyard chickens in Prince Rupert, pointing out that several other communities have successfully adopted bylaws allowing residents to keep a small number of hens with responsible ownership.
First, she noted backyard chickens can boost local food production by providing families with a fresh, reliable source of eggs. This supports household food security and reduces the environmental impact of transporting food over long distances.
Secondly, she highlighted the educational value of keeping chickens. The experience can teach both children and adults about animal care, responsibility, and the basics of sustainable agriculture, providing hands-on learning opportunities within the home.
Lastly, Forster pointed out that chickens could help reduce organic waste, as they naturally consume kitchen scraps and garden clippings. This can lower the volume of waste going to the landfill and support broader efforts around environmental stewardship.
“This request is very timely, as council will recall that the Official Community Plan has a fairly extensive food security section in it and staff have been working on advancing food policy in Rupert. This, along with other agricultural opportunities are being examined,” said city manager Rob Buchan.
Coun. Forster also acknowledged careful consideration is needed before moving forward with a bylaw. She referenced guidelines from the BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA), which offer recommendations for municipalities exploring this option.
These include setting a maximum number of chickens, prohibiting roosters, establishing minimum yard and coop size requirements, and ensuring owners can meet their chickens’ veterinary and care needs.
Additional considerations include how the City would manage potential public health concerns such as avian illnesses and the logistical costs associated with bylaw enforcement and community education.
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Staff will report their findings at a future council meeting.