Overview
Domestic pigeons are a species of pigeon that live in close proximity to humans and are commonly found in urban areas. Racing, or homing pigeons, are a type of domestic pigeon bred specifically as pets. In the past, pigeons were typically used to deliver mail and currently many are bred to be used in racing competitions.
Section 5.24 of the Town’s Zoning By-law 500 restricts the keeping or raising of pigeons in settlement areas, except a few areas that have a Rural (RU) zoning and where lot sizes permit. Pigeons are not a prohibited animal within the Town of Georgina Animal Control By-law 2003-0072 and there are no effective restrictions on the keeping of pigeons on rural-zoned properties, with a restriction of a maximum of three birds on all other zoned properties. The effect of By-law 2003-0072 is to prohibit the keeping of more than three pigeons on most properties within settlement areas in Georgina (i.e. Keswick, Sutton Jackson's Point, Virginia and Pefferlaw).
A survey of the practices of other municipalities was done to better understand the manner in which pigeons have been addressed. Eighteen municipalities were reviewed, with an emphasis placed on those within York Region specifically and southern Ontario more generally. Municipalities reviewed include all of those in York Region, as well as London, Kingston, Brampton, Caledon, Milton, Cambridge, Toronto, Oshawa and Innisfil. Approximately half of these municipalities allow pigeons in residential areas.
Animal Licensing By-law 2003-0073 regulates animals at large within the Town. Currently the Town prohibits animals, other than cats and dogs, from being at large. This by-law would have to be modified to permit pigeon racing, which involves releasing pigeons from their lofts.
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Public engagement
Town of Georgina contact
Brittany Dobrindt, Planner I
bdobrindt@georgina.ca
905-476-4301, ext. 2442
Share your thoughts
Survey
Take the online survey. It will be available until May 25.
Public engagement session
A Public Information Centre will take place Tuesday, May 9, 2023 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Civic Centre in the Council Chamber.
Timelines
Timelines
- A report back to Council with results of public outreach is planned for summer 2023
- An in-person public open house is planned for May 9, 2023
- A public survey will be available soon
- During the Feb. 15 Council meeting, Council approved a recommendation to conduct public outreach regarding pigeons in residential areas
- A staff report regarding pigeons in residential areas was brought before council on Feb. 15, 2023
- A deputation was made to Council regarding pigeons in residential areas in September 2022
Important links
Important links
Learn more at Health Canada Pigeon Information
Documents
Council reports
Frequently asked questions
How does the Town control pigeon movements?
The Town cannot control pigeon movements. However, the matter is currently under review and various options are being examined. This includes the possibility that if domestic pigeons were to be allowed in residential areas, the Town could impose certain provisions, such as registering the birds with owner identifying leg bands, which would allow lost birds to be returned with their owners.
Have pigeons not been allowed before now?
Currently, Section 5.24 of the Town’s Zoning By-law 500 restricts the keeping or raising of pigeons in settlement areas, except for a few areas that have a Rural (RU) zoning and where lot sizes permit. Pigeons are not a prohibited animal within the Town of Georgina Animal Control By-law 2003-0072 and there are no effective restrictions on the keeping of pigeons on rural-zoned properties, with a restriction of a maximum of three birds on all other zoned properties. The effect of By-law 2003-0072 is to prohibit the keeping of more than three pigeons on most properties within settlement areas in Georgina (i.e. Keswick, Sutton Jackson's Point, Virginia and Pefferlaw).
Will pigeon owners be liable for cleaning up after their birds?
The matter of permitting pigeons in residential areas is currently under review and various options are being examined. This includes the possibility that if domestic pigeons were to be allowed in residential areas, the Town could impose certain provisions, such as cleanliness standards, which would ensure that their lofts are kept hygienic.
Do I have to get rid of pigeons if I own them currently?
If pigeons are not currently allowed on a specific property, then you will not be able to keep them.
Section 5.24 of the Town’s Zoning By-law 500 restricts the keeping or raising of pigeons in settlement areas, except a few areas that have a Rural (RU) zoning and where lot sizes permit.