In fall 2021, the City undertook a comprehensive review of the Animal Bylaw to gain insight into animal-related topics such as human-wildlife interactions, the feeding of wildlife, pet licensing and prohibited animals. This work helped to inform the Updates to Chapter 349, Animals staff report  and proposed changes to modernize the Chapter 349, Animals Bylaw. The recommendations outlined in the report were adopted by City Council at its meeting on July 20, 2022 and the bylaw changes are listed below.

Effective July 21, 2022, dog owners will have 24 hours to remove dog excrement from their property.

Effective July 21, 2022, pets who are kept outside longer than 30 minutes must have enclosures or outdoor shelters that meet standards outlined in the Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) Act, 2019.

Effective December 1, 2022, households will be permitted to:

  • Own up to four guinea pigs and/or rabbits. This does not apply to members of a rescue group who are caring for rabbits and/or guinea pigs.
  • Keep up to 30 domestic pigeons on a property, with allowances for an increase to a maximum of 50 during breeding season (April to October).

Effective April 1, 2023, feeding wildlife will be prohibited across Toronto and on private properties. Feeding wildlife can lead to public safety issues and negatively affect wildlife and the broader ecosystem. It is also the most prevalent cause of any conflict between wild canids (i.e. coyotes, foxes) and humans and their pets.

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