Can you keep chickens in Borough of Ocean Gate, NJ?
No. Ocean Gate prohibits keeping chickens, roosters and other fowl for domestic use anywhere in the borough, and the same section bans livestock, which the code defines to include chickens.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | No |
| Hens | Not permitted |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit | Not available (chickens are banned) |
| Coop setback | Not applicable |
| Lot size | Not specified |
Good to know
- Section 167-22C states that pigeons, chickens, ducks, geese, roosters or other fowl shall not be kept for domestic use within the borough.
- Section 167-22B separately bans owning, keeping or maintaining livestock, poultry, wild animals or exotic animals.
- Section 167-21 defines fowl as a bird including ducks, geese or chickens, and defines livestock to include turkeys and chickens raised for home use or profit.
- Section 422-1 also treats a pen or enclosure for fowls kept near a dwelling as a nuisance.
Source: Borough of Ocean Gate Code (eCode360), § 167-22, Prohibited conduct; prohibited animals (view the ordinance)
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district; always confirm the current rules with the Borough of Ocean Gate clerk or zoning office before you build.
Chicken rules in nearby Ocean County towns
We build across Ocean County
Borough of Ocean Gatedoesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout OceanCounty 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.