NJ chicken rules · Sussex County
Can you keep chickens in Hardyston Township, NJ?
In Hardyston, the zoning code allows poultry only where it's incidental to an actual agricultural operation — not as a standalone backyard use. Widely-circulated "six hens" figures for Hardyston appear online but are not in the town's adopted code.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | Yes, with conditions |
| Hens | Not specified in the code |
| Roosters | Not specified |
| Permit | Not specified |
| Coop setback | Not specified in the code |
| Lot size | Tied to qualifying as a major agricultural activity |
Good to know
- Hardyston's Animals chapter covers only dogs, cats, and wildlife feeding — it has no poultry provision.
- A "six hens, 20-ft setback" rule circulates online for Hardyston but could not be found in the adopted code (it matches another town's ordinance). Confirm current rules with the township.
Source: Hardyston Township Zoning Code (eCode360), Ch. 185 Zoning, § 185-50(B), Agricultural uses — view the ordinance
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district — always confirm the current rules with the Hardyston Township clerk or zoning office before you build.
Building a coop in Hardyston Township?
Triano Farms builds custom, predator-proof chicken coops on-site across SussexCounty and all of New Jersey, sized to your flock and built to your town's rules.
New to this? Start with how to raise chickens in NJ, or what a coop costs.
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.