Can you keep chickens in Borough of Bay Head, NJ?
No. Bay Head bans keeping, raising or maintaining any animal that could be used for farm or agricultural purposes, which covers chickens.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | No |
| Hens | Not permitted |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit | Not available (chickens are banned) |
| Coop setback | Not applicable |
| Lot size | Not specified |
| Rule adopted | July 2015 |
Good to know
- The ban is in Chapter 69, Article I, titled Keeping of Animals and Birds.
- The rule does not name chickens; it bans any animal that could be used for farm or agricultural purposes.
- Pets are defined as domesticated animals kept for amusement or companionship.
- Violations carry a fine of up to $1,000.
Source: Borough of Bay Head Code (eCode360), § 69-1, Certain animals prohibited (view the ordinance)
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district; always confirm the current rules with the Borough of Bay Head clerk or zoning office before you build.
Chicken rules in nearby Ocean County towns
Compare them side by side in the Ocean County table.
BarnegatBarnegat LightBeach HavenBeachwoodBerkeleyBrickEagleswoodHarvey CedarsIsland HeightsJacksonLaceyLakehurstLakewoodLavalletteLittle Egg HarborLong BeachManchesterMantolokingOcean (Ocean County)Ocean GatePine BeachPlumstedPoint PleasantPoint Pleasant BeachSeaside HeightsSeaside ParkShip BottomSouth Toms RiverStaffordSurf CityToms RiverTuckerton
We build across Ocean County
Borough of Bay Headdoesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout OceanCounty and all of New Jersey. If a coop is in your plans, we can help you sort out where it's allowed nearby.
Ready to keep your flock safe?
Tell us about your animals and your land. We'll design a coop built to last, on-site, just for you.