NJ chicken rules · Morris County
Can you keep chickens in Town of Dover, NJ?
No. Dover's health code bans keeping any barnyard fowl, chickens expressly included, anywhere in town.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | No |
| Hens | Not permitted |
| Roosters | Not permitted |
| Permit | Not available |
| Coop setback | — |
| Lot size | — |
Good to know
- § 395-9A prohibits keeping swine, sheep, goats, horses, cattle, rabbits, ducks, geese, and other barnyard fowl including chickens, turkeys, and pheasants anywhere in town.
- Raising or keeping any fowl for slaughter is separately barred.
- Penalty $25 to $750 per offense, each day a separate offense. This is the Morris County Town of Dover.
Source: Town of Dover Code, Ch. 395 Health, Art. III (eCode360), §§ 395-9, 395-10 — view the ordinance
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district — always confirm the current rules with the Town of Dover clerk or zoning office before you build.
We build across Morris County
Town of Doverdoesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout MorrisCounty 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.