NJ chicken rules · Union County
Can you keep chickens in Township of Berkeley Heights, NJ?
No. Berkeley Heights prohibits keeping chickens and other fowl for domestic use, and roosters are banned township-wide. Note this is Berkeley Heights in Union County, not the Township of Berkeley in Ocean County, which does allow hens.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | No |
| Hens | Not permitted |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit | Not available for fowl |
| Coop setback | — |
| Lot size | — |
Good to know
- The sanitary code bans pigeons, chickens, ducks, geese, and other fowl for domestic use (§ 8.68.400).
- The code allows some dogs and cats with a permit, but does not extend that to fowl.
- Don't confuse this with the Township of Berkeley in Ocean County, a different municipality.
Source: Township of Berkeley Heights Sanitary Code, § 8.68.400, § 8.68.400 — view the ordinance
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district — always confirm the current rules with the Township of Berkeley Heights clerk or zoning office before you build.
We build across Union County
Township of Berkeley Heightsdoesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout UnionCounty 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.