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Lethbridge County is asking for residential feedback on allowing certain animals like goats and sheep within hamlet boundaries. (File photo: LNN)

Feedback sought on animals in Lethbridge County hamlets

Jan 9, 2023 | 10:31 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Residents are invited to share their thoughts on whether or not to allow certain animals within hamlet boundaries in Lethbridge County.

The Animal Control Bylaw currently in effect does not allow for residents to keep any livestock or fowl in Lethbridge County hamlets, which include Fairview, Kipp, Monarch, Shaugnessy, Diamond City, Chin, Iron Springs, and Turin.

Council is asking hamlet residents and property owners if a small number of livestock or fowl should be permitted within hamlet boundaries. Citizens can share their thoughts via an online survey, or by calling 403-328-5525.

Council has passed first reading of an amended bylaw that would allow up to five animal units in hamlets, depending on the property’s size.

A bylaw must pass three readings in order to take effect.

Lethbridge County stated that one animal unit is equal to:

  • One horse, donkey, or mule over a year old
  • Two colts up to one year old
  • One llama/alpaca
  • Two ostriches, emu, or other ratite
  • One cow or steer over one year old
  • Two calves up to one year old
  • One elk or bison/buffalo
  • Fifty (50) broiler chickens
  • Fifteen (15) chickens (layers)
  • Ten (10) ducks, turkeys, pheasants, geese, or other similar fowl or in combination thereof
  • Three sheep or goats over a year old
  • Two swine over a year old
  • Twenty (20) rabbits or other similar rodents

The current and proposed bylaw amendments both require that property owners manage manure, bedding, fur, feathers, and feed responsibly in order to avoid causing a nuisance to other properties. Violations under both are subject to fines.

The residential survey on this matter is open until February 17, 2023. Results will be reviewed at an upcoming council meeting before a decision is made on whether or not to adopt the bylaw.

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