NJ chicken rules · Essex County
Can you keep chickens in Township of Nutley, NJ?
No. Nutley's zoning bans raising or keeping poultry, chickens included, in every zoning district, so backyard chickens aren't permitted anywhere in the township.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | No |
| Hens | Not permitted |
| Roosters | Not permitted |
| Permit | Not available |
| Coop setback | — |
| Lot size | — |
Good to know
- Zoning lists "the raising and keeping of livestock and poultry" among uses that may not be established in any district.
- The animal chapter covers dogs, rabies, and general control but creates no chicken allowance.
- Poultry appears in the code only in the zoning prohibition and a floodplain definition.
Source: Township of Nutley Code, Ch. 700 Zoning, § 700-39 (eCode360), § 700-39K — view the ordinance
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district — always confirm the current rules with the Township of Nutley clerk or zoning office before you build.
We build across Essex County
Township of Nutleydoesn'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.
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.