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 |
| Ducks | Not allowed (same rule as chickens) |
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.
What about ducks?
No. Bay Head bans keeping any animal that could be used for farm or agricultural purposes, which covers ducks.
§ 69-1: "no person, possessor, or occupant of lands in the borough shall have, keep, raise, or maintain any animal that could be used for farm or agricultural purposes" Duck coops we build.
We build across Ocean County
Borough of Bay Head doesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout Ocean County and all of New Jersey. If a coop is in your plans, we can help you sort out where it's allowed nearby.
Chicken rules in nearby Ocean County towns
Compare them side by side in the Ocean County table.
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.