Can I keep chickens, bees, or livestock on my property?
In the City of Cold Lake, Alberta, backyard hens & livestock rules are set by 704-AD-21, Urban Hen Keeping Bylaw (Unofficial Consolidation as of November 28, 2023) and 1 other bylaw, verified 2026-09-27. Max hens: maximum of four (4) Hens. Permit or licence: Hen License required; Hen License Fee $30.
704-AD-21, Urban Hen Keeping Bylaw (Unofficial Consolidation as of November 28, 2023)
adopted bylaw
hens permitted
yes
s. 3.1
max hens
maximum of four (4) Hens
s. 4.2
roosters prohibited
yes
s. 4.1.1
permit or licence
Hen License required; Hen License Fee $30
s. 4.1.2; Schedule "A"
setback
1.2 meters (m) from all adjacent property lines; 1.5 m from the property's house; and 3 m from windows and doors of the residential structure on the property and any neighboring house
s. 7.1.4
scout note
Permits and regulates the keeping of urban hens in Cold Lake; sets conditions for hen enclosures, numbers, and sanitation.
815-AD-23, Urban Beekeeping Bylaw
adopted bylaw
bees permitted
yes
s. 3.1
permit or licence
Beekeeping License required; Beekeeping License Fee: $30 annual; proof of registration with the Provincial Apiculturist every year by June 30.
s. 4.1.1; s. 5.1.4.8; Schedule "A"
setback
Beehive and nuc must be placed at least three metres away from all adjacent property lines unless neighbouring properties are separated by a solid fence or hedge at least two meters high.
s. 8.3
scout note
Regulates the keeping of bees in urban areas of Cold Lake; sets requirements for hive placement, registration, and management.