Can you keep chickens in Township of Irvington, NJ?
No. Irvington bans housing any live fowl, and the code names chickens and roosters directly. A first offense carries a $1,000 fine.
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 ban covers housing, selling, giving away and buying live fowl anywhere in the township.
- The code lists chickens, roosters, turkeys, ducks, pigeons and quail as fowl.
- The article was amended in its entirety on 11-23-2020 by Ord. No. MC 3744.
- Fines are $1,000 for a first offense and $1,500 plus a court fee for a second.
Source: Township of Irvington Code (eCode360), § 167-2, Keeping fowl, livestock, wild/indigenous and exotic 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 Irvington clerk or zoning office before you build.
We build across Essex County
Township of Irvingtondoesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout EssexCounty 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.