NJ chicken rules · Sussex County
Can you keep chickens in Vernon Township, NJ?
Yes. Vernon allows backyard hens based on lot size: up to 6 birds on a lot of at least 100 ft × 200 ft (under an acre), or up to 15 on 1 to 5 acres. Roosters are prohibited and a $50 zoning permit is required.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | Yes, with conditions |
| Hens | 6 birds (100×200 ft lot) up to 15 (1–5 acres) |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Permit | Required — $50 zoning permit |
| Coop setback | 10 ft side and rear yard; rear yard only |
| Lot size | Min. 100 ft × 200 ft |
Good to know
- Coops and runs must be in the rear yard and separated from any dwelling.
- A coop or run 200 sq ft or larger also needs health and building department permits.
- Chicken ordinance adopted September 2018.
Source: Township of Vernon Land Development Code (eCode360), Ch. 330, § 330-195, Keeping of animals — view the ordinance
Verified 2026-09. Ordinances change and zoning can differ by district — always confirm the current rules with the Vernon Township clerk or zoning office before you build.
Building a coop in Vernon Township?
Triano Farms builds custom, predator-proof chicken coops on-site across SussexCounty and all of New Jersey, sized to your flock and built to your town's rules.
New to this? Start with how to raise chickens in NJ, or what a coop costs.
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.