NJ chicken rules · Union County
Can you keep chickens in City of Summit, NJ?
No. Summit's Board of Health code expressly bans keeping chickens and other fowl for domestic use. Its livestock permit path covers animals like goats and sheep, but not fowl.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | No |
| Hens | Not permitted |
| Roosters | Not permitted |
| Permit | Not available for fowl |
| Coop setback | — |
| Lot size | — |
Good to know
- The Board of Health code prohibits keeping chickens, ducks, geese, or other fowl for domestic use.
- A $50 Board of Health permit exists for certain livestock, but fowl are excluded.
- Confirm the current rules with the city before you build.
Source: City of Summit Code, Board of Health, Art. IX (eCode360), § BH:5-35 — view the ordinance
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district — always confirm the current rules with the City of Summit clerk or zoning office before you build.
We build across Union County
City of Summitdoesn'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.