Can you keep chickens in Washington Township (Morris), NJ?
No dedicated backyard allowance. In Washington Township (Morris County / Long Valley), poultry is only recognized as farm-scale 'agriculture,' and coops aren't among the permitted residential accessory uses. Backyard chickens aren't currently allowed at residential scale; residents have an active petition to change that.
The rules at a glance
| Chickens allowed | No |
| Hens | Not specified (no residential backyard provision) |
| Roosters | Not specified |
| Permit | Not specified |
| Coop setback | Agricultural-building standards only |
| Lot size | Poultry falls under commercial agriculture (farm-scale) |
| Ducks | Not addressed in the code |
Good to know
- This is the Morris County Washington Township (Long Valley), not the Warren, Bergen, or Gloucester townships of the same name, which have different rules.
- The permitted residential accessory-uses list (pools, sheds, garages, horse barns) does not include coops.
- Confirm with the township. An active petition may change this.
What about ducks?
Unclear. Washington Township (Morris) only addresses poultry and 'fowl' as agricultural uses, never defining fowl or mentioning ducks, so ask the township.
§ 217-40: "The raising and keeping of farm animals, including pets, pastoral farm animals (dairy and beef cattle, sheep and goats), swine, fowl, horses, ponies and mules" Duck coops we build.
We build across Morris County
Washington Township (Morris) doesn't allow backyard chickens today, but ordinances change, and we build custom sheds and animal structures on-site throughout Morris County and all of New Jersey. If a coop is in your plans, we can help you sort out where it's allowed nearby.
Chicken rules in nearby Morris County towns
Compare them side by side in the Morris County table.
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.