Can you keep chickens in City of Paterson, NJ?
No. Paterson bans keeping live chickens and roosters anywhere in the city, and other fowl need a $100 Health Division license.
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 chicken and rooster ban was added by Ord. No. 25-015, adopted May 20, 2025.
- Other live fowl need a Health Division license that expires December 31 each year; the fee is $100.
- No fowl may run at large, and businesses that sell live fowl to the public are exempt.
- Violations can bring a fine of up to $1,000, up to 90 days in jail, or community service.
Source: City of Paterson Code (eCode360), § 121-36, Keeping of live chickens and roosters prohibited (view the ordinance)
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district; always confirm the current rules with the City of Paterson clerk or zoning office before you build.
Chicken rules in nearby Passaic County towns
We build across Passaic County
City of Patersondoesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout PassaicCounty 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.