A close vote at Chatham-Kent council denied the extension of the backyard chickens pilot program.
Administration asked councillors to extend the two year pilot program for rural, residential, and village residential zones to May 31, 2027 due to the 2026 municipal election on October 26. The program is set to end on November 4.
"The proposed extension would provide sufficient time for new Council to become familiar with the program, receive the final report, evaluate the program, and make an informed decision regarding its future," a staff report said.
During the meeting on Monday night, Kent Federation of Agriculture President Jim Brackett made a deputation opposed to the extension, noting that this council has "considerably" more experience on this issue.
"An evaluation should come before an extension," said Brackett.
He noted the federation is not for or against the pilot project, but that a report is necessary to better evaluate the initiative.
The extension failed nine to eight.
A final report will come before council after the pilot program ends in November 2026 to give councillors an informed decision about the future of the program.
The bylaw permits up to 10 hens on properties in eligible zones, excluding Erieau, subject to a hen permit.
Applicants wishing to keep hens must apply for a permit, meet all applicable bylaw requirements, and pay the initial permit fee of $400.
Administration said a $200 on-site inspection by Pet and Wildlife Rescue is required before a permit is issued to ensure compliance with the backyard chicken regulations outlined in the bylaw.
