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 |
| Ducks | Not allowed (same rule as chickens) |
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.
What about ducks?
No. Hillside bans owning or keeping ducks, chickens, geese and other named birds anywhere in the township.
§ 113-23: "No person shall own, keep or harbor chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, roosters or pigeons within the Township." Duck coops we build.
We build across Union County
Township of Hillside doesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout Union 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 Union County towns
Compare them side by side in the Union 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.