![Hen on grass with fence in the backyard Hen on grass with fence in the backyard](/images/cov/feature/backyard-hen-landing.jpg)
![Hen on grass with fence in the backyard Hen on grass with fence in the backyard](/images/cov/feature/backyard-hen-landing.jpg)
To help you get involved in your own food production, backyard hens may be kept in your own backyard. Ensure you:
- Read the rules about your coop and the number of hens you may have
- Apply for and renew your permit annually
What's happeningAnnual permits begin in 2022
Beginning January 1, 2022, all residents with backyard hens will need to renew their backyard hen permit annually. This will help us track where hens are located in the city so that you can be reached and notified in the case of a disease outbreak.
Permits and renewals are free of charge and take just a few minutes to complete. Permits must be renewed by January 15, each year.
Steps to keeping backyard hens
Important note Raising other animals for meat, fibre, milk, eggs, or other products (animal husbandry) is not currently permitted in the City of Vancouver.