Calgary 
Do you want to keep a pigeon as a pet in Calgary? Then, there is a license for that!
Quang Nguyen Vinh
Today, the city of Calgary announced that residents can apply for Pigeon licensing under the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw.
The initiative is part of the urban livestock program which allows Calgarians to keep hens and bees.
If you want to keep a pigeon in your residence, you need to be a member of the Canadian Pigeon Fanciers’ Association Inc. or the Canadian Racing Pigeon Union.
Calgary Community Standards Strategic Services Leader Jennifer Lawlor said, “Unlike keeping urban hens and bees, there is no formal training program available for pigeon care. The required pigeon association membership enables pigeon keepers to connect to the broader pigeon keeping community, where they receive needed care information and access to mentoring.”
Other requirements include:
- Be 18+ years old or have a parent or guardian apply on their behalf.
- Acquire a pre-application enquiry file number issued by Planning and Development (if they acquired pigeons after January 1, 2022).
- Submit a site plan and details of housing needed for pigeons or proof that they kept pigeons prior to January 1, 2022.
- Provide proof of ownership of property or consent of the property owner.
Though Calgarians have been keeping pigeons in the city for over 100 years, the city says the new licensing regulation under the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw will ensure that any neighbouring concerns are addressed.
More information is available here.
