NJ chicken rules · Union County
Can you keep chickens in Township of Clark, NJ?
No. Clark prohibits keeping chickens and other farm animals in every zone, except residents who had chickens registered with the Health Department before the 2021 ordinance.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | No |
| Hens | Not permitted (grandfathered keepers: up to 6) |
| Roosters | Not permitted |
| Permit | No permit path for new keepers |
| Coop setback | Grandfathered coops must be at least 3 ft from all property lines |
| Lot size | — |
Good to know
- The farm-animals article strictly prohibits raising or keeping chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, and other fowl in all zones.
- Pigeons are separately prohibited.
- Grandfathered keepers may not sell eggs; the exemption ends when the registered birds die.
Source: Township of Clark Code, Ch. 84 Animals, Art. V (eCode360), §§ 84-32 to 84-37 — view the ordinance
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district — always confirm the current rules with the Township of Clark clerk or zoning office before you build.
We build across Union County
Township of Clarkdoesn'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.