Can you keep chickens in City of Plainfield, NJ?
No. Plainfield's animal code bans keeping and raising chickens on a noncommercial basis at residential properties.
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 was added to the prohibited activities section by Ordinance MC 2021-33 on 10-12-2021.
- Fines under this article run from $100 to $1,000 per day, with each day a separate violation.
- A search of the whole code for poultry turned up only a definition, a vendor exemption and a floodplain definition, none of which permit backyard flocks.
Source: City of Plainfield Code (eCode360), § 5:7-6D, Prohibited activities and treatment (view the ordinance)
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district; always confirm the current rules with the City of Plainfield clerk or zoning office before you build.
We build across Union County
City of Plainfielddoesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout UnionCounty 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.