In 2016, Cambridge residents expressed interest in allowing backyard hens in residential zones.

Based on this interest, the City conducted a review of the Zoning and Animal Control by-laws and identified three potential options which were presented at public information sessions in February 2018.

A formal public meeting for the amendments to the Zoning By-law and Official Plan was held at Planning and Development Committee on September 11, 2018 and a recommendation report was presented to Planning and Development Committee on March 26, 2019.

Based on feedback received and concerns noted, Council chose to not allow hens in residential zones.