Can you keep chickens in City of Salem, NJ?
No. Salem City bans keeping chickens, ducks, turkeys and other livestock anywhere inside the city limits.
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 |
| Rule adopted | May 1997 |
Good to know
- The ban covers cattle, horses, sheep, swine, goats, chickens, ducks, turkeys, potbellied pigs and other livestock.
- The only exceptions are livestock in transit and temporary permission from Common Council for educational, scientific or parade use.
- The article was adopted 5-19-1997 by Ordinance No. 97-4.
Source: City of Salem Code (eCode360), § 74-40, Keeping of livestock within city limits prohibited (view the ordinance)
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district; always confirm the current rules with the City of Salem clerk or zoning office before you build.
Chicken rules in nearby Salem County towns
We build across Salem County
City of Salemdoesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout SalemCounty 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.