Can I keep chickens in Toms River Township, NJ?
Yes, with conditions — Toms River Township allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations (up to 6 hens where permitted). Roosters are prohibited, and coops must be at least 50 ft from neighboring lines/homes. (§ 348-5.24, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Maximum hens | 6 |
| Roosters | Prohibited |
| Coop setback | 50 ft |
| Coop rules | Building for shelter of poultry in Rural Residential Zone: 50 ft rear and side yard setback per section 348-10.5E. |
| Code section | § 348-5.24 |
Chickens are only permitted in Toms River Township within the Rural Residential Zone, limited to 6 hens (no roosters) for personal use only. Coops must be set back 50 feet from both rear and side property lines. The vast majority of residential properties in Toms River are not zoned Rural Residential.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Toms River Township?
Yes, with conditions — Toms River Township allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (§ 348-5.24).
How many chickens can I keep in Toms River Township?
Up to 6 hens. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Are roosters allowed in Toms River Township?
No — roosters are prohibited in Toms River Township.
How far must a chicken coop be from the property line in Toms River Township?
50 feet minimum. Building for shelter of poultry in Rural Residential Zone: 50 ft rear and side yard setback per section 348-10.5E.
What law covers backyard chickens in Toms River Township?
§ 348-5.24. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
§ 348-5.24 — read the official code
“The keeping of poultry or livestock (other than horses and not more than six chickens, but excluding roosters) for personal use shall only be permitted in the Rural Residential Zone provided that all buildings and structures utilized for housing such livestock or poultry shall be set back in accordance with section 348-10.5E. [section 348-5.24, amended 12-26-2017 by Ord. No. 4569-17]” source
Last verified June 15, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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