NJ chicken rules · Somerset County
Can you keep chickens in Bridgewater Township, NJ?
No dedicated backyard allowance. Bridgewater permits poultry only as a commercial agricultural/farm use, not as a residential accessory use. A 2018 proposal to allow backyard chickens was introduced but never adopted.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | No |
| Hens | Not specified (no residential provision) |
| Roosters | Not specified |
| Permit | Not specified |
| Coop setback | Farm buildings 100 ft from the lot line |
| Lot size | Tied to 'farm' status |
Good to know
- The code permits poultry kept 'for commercial purposes' under approved farm practices.
- A 2018 residential backyard-chicken ordinance was tabled and never adopted.
- Confirm current rules with the township.
Source: Bridgewater Township Land Use Code (eCode360), Ch. 126, § 126-333 — view the ordinance
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district — always confirm the current rules with the Bridgewater Township clerk or zoning office before you build.
We build across Somerset County
Bridgewater Townshipdoesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout SomersetCounty and all of New Jersey. If a coop is in your plans, we can help you sort out where it's allowed nearby.
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Tell us about your animals and your land. We'll design a coop built to last, on-site, just for you.