Can you keep chickens in Township of Hillside, NJ?
No. Hillside's animal control article says no one may own, keep or harbor chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, roosters or pigeons anywhere in the township.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | No |
| Hens | Not permitted |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit | Not available (chickens are banned) |
| Coop setback | Not specified |
| Lot size | Not specified |
Good to know
- The same section bans swine, sheep, goats, horses, ponies and cattle.
- Rabbits, guinea pigs and similar small animals are allowed but capped at five in total.
- A first offense is fined up to $200; a second can reach $1,000 or 90 days.
- Chapter 359, Poultry, is separate and covers only private slaughtering and the sale of live poultry.
Source: Township of Hillside Code (eCode360), § 113-23, Animals not permitted (view the ordinance)
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district; always confirm the current rules with the Township of Hillside clerk or zoning office before you build.
We build across Union County
Township of Hillsidedoesn'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.
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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.