Can I keep chickens in Woodbridge Township, NJ?
Yes, with conditions — Woodbridge Township allows chickens only in certain zones or lot configurations. (§ 11-8.1, verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | Conditional (zone / lot rules) |
|---|---|
| Permit required | Yes ($75) |
| Coop rules | Any exterior structure used for housing animals must comply with all requirements of the Woodbridge Township Land Use and Development Ordinance. Permit revoked if premises not kept sanitary or structure does not comply with Land Use ordinance. |
| Code section | § 11-8.1 |
Woodbridge Township prohibits keeping chickens and other farm animals on residential premises by default, but the Department of Health and Human Services may grant a special permit waiver at its sole discretion ($75/year, renewed annually). No permit shall be issued until the Department determines the premises are suitable upon inspection. The permit can be revoked at any time.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Woodbridge Township?
Yes, with conditions — Woodbridge Township allows chickens only in certain zones or situations (§ 11-8.1).
How many chickens can I keep in Woodbridge Township?
It depends on your lot. No hen limit stated; permit is a discretionary waiver granted at the sole discretion of the Department of Health and Human Services.. Rules vary by zoning district — check the full summary for your zone.
Do I need a permit to keep chickens in Woodbridge Township?
Yes — Woodbridge Township requires a permit or registration before keeping chickens (fee: $75).
What law covers backyard chickens in Woodbridge Township?
§ 11-8.1. Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
§ 11-8.1 — read the official code
“No person shall maintain, keep or harbor on any interior or exterior residential premises in the Township any cattle, rabbits, sheep, goats, ducks, swine, horses, chickens or similar nondomesticated animals or fowl, excluding pigeons. The Department of Health and Human Services of the Township of Woodbridge may consider and review, in its sole discretion, certain requests for a special permit waiving the permit holder from compliance with this subsection. The fee for the permit shall be seventy-five ($75.00) dollars annually.” source
Last verified June 15, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
Reach people actively researching backyard chickens in their city. Founding sponsor slots now open.
Apply to become a sponsor →