Backyard hens & livestock — North Cowichan, British Columbia
Can I keep chickens, bees, or livestock on my property?
In the District Municipality of North Cowichan, British Columbia, backyard hens & livestock rules are set by Zoning Bylaw No. 2950 (1997, incl. amendment BL3758, 2019 'Keeping of Farm Animals & Poultry'), verified 2026-08-28. Max hens: not more than 12 rabbits or poultry. Livestock rule: Permitted on lots >8000m2. On 4000-8000m2 lots, max 2 farm animals. Not permitted <4000m2. Setback: at least 15 m from any lot line.
Permitted on lots >8000m2. On 4000-8000m2 lots, max 2 farm animals. Not permitted <4000m2.
s. 48.1(1), s. 48.1(2)
setback
at least 15 m from any lot line
s. 48.1(3)
scout note
On lots 1,675-4,000 m2, up to 12 rabbits/poultry allowed; 4,000-8,000 m2 adds up to 2 farm animals; over 8,000 m2 unlimited. Coop/structure must be 15 m from all lot lines; no keeping poultry/farm animals below 1,675 m2.