After a public hearing during the June 12 Council Meeting, Okotoks Town Council approved a Land Use Bylaw (LUB) amendment to include permanent deer-deterrent fencing as part of ongoing deer mitigation strategies.
The amendment enables heights of backyard fences to increase to 2.3 metres (approx. 7.5 feet) provided they are chain-link, wrought iron or rail style when adjacent to open space. This height is expected to deter deer and also provides visibility, light and air flow.
Council’s decision was made in alignment with the Urban Deer Task Force’s recommendation and following review of the results from the urban deer survey completed earlier this spring where 44 per cent of respondents preferred this option.
“This amendment proves additional flexibility for backyard fences and is another strategy for deterring deer on private property” said Colin Gainer, Senior Planner.
The Town will monitor fencing changes and determine if further guidelines or regulations will be required in the future.
To learn more about the bylaw amendment, review the urban deer survey results and get tips on deterring deer, visit www.okotoks.ca/urban-deer.