NJ chicken rules · Hudson County
Can you keep chickens in City of Bayonne, NJ?
No. Bayonne bans keeping chickens, roosters, and other fowl in every zone citywide. The only exception is animals that were registered before the ban, which are grandfathered until they die.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | No |
| Hens | Not permitted |
| Roosters | Not permitted |
| Permit | Not available |
| Coop setback | — |
| Lot size | — |
Good to know
- Farm animals, defined to include chickens, roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys, and quail, are prohibited in all zones.
- Animals registered with the Health Department before the ban are grandfathered until they die.
- Violations carry a minimum $50 fine.
Source: City of Bayonne Revised General Ordinances, Ch. 21 (eCode360), § 21-30 — view the ordinance
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district — always confirm the current rules with the City of Bayonne clerk or zoning office before you build.
We build across Hudson County
City of Bayonnedoesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout HudsonCounty 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.