Keeping Fowls
Residents who wish to keep fowls (hens, roosters and chickens) on their property may do so, within the Councils standards and guidelines.
Fowl shelters
For information regarding Fowl Shelters, please see our Keeping Poultry Guidelines.
Noise complaints
When Council receives a noise complaint regarding fowls, we will investigate the complaint, and the owners may be required to remove the animals. Roosters are not necessary for hens to lay eggs, and therefore, it is recommended that roosters are not kept.
Waste management
All fowl waste, including seeds, feathers, dead birds and faecal matter, should be placed in a plastic bag and disposed of immediately into an approved receptacle or rubbish bin.
Fly and vermin control
Fly baits and/or fly paper should be placed within the shelter out of the reach of the fowls. It is important to regularly check and replace these baits. Keep the area around the shelter clear of materials that might provide harborage for vermin. Excess food left inside the shelter may attract rats and mice, so make sure that you give the poultry only the amount of food they will eat within a short time and store food in vermin-proof containers fitted with close lids and kept off the floor. Rat bait surrounding the shelter is encouraged to deter vermin.
Always remember that fowls shall be kept in such a location, structure and condition that it will not cause nuisance or injury to health in any way.
Further information
If you have any further questions regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact the Council’s Customer Service Centre on (08) 8406 8222.