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 |
| Ducks | Not allowed (same rule as chickens) |
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.
What about ducks?
Ducks are treated like chickens. Bridgewater's agricultural-use rule lumps poultry and fowl together and allows them only when kept for commercial purposes on qualifying farmland.
§ 126-333B: "Livestock, poultry, fowl or other animals maintained on the premises for commercial purposes shall be permitted according to approved farm practices." Duck coops we build.
We build across Somerset County
Bridgewater Township doesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout Somerset 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 Somerset County towns
Compare them side by side in the Somerset 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.