Toms River, NJ Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- Cows/horses
- 1 per acre max
- Goats/sheep
- 7 per acre max
- Applies to
- farms with 10+ animals
- Penalty
- up to $200 fine or jail
- Reviewed by
- Superintendent of Buildings
Summary
Toms River Township caps commercial livestock density at one cow or horse per acre and seven goats or sheep per acre, but the limit applies only to farms with 10 or more animals of that type.
Not more than one cow per acre of land shall be housed or maintained. Not more than one horse per acre of land shall be housed or maintained. Not more than seven goats per acre of land shall be housed or maintained. Not more than seven sheep per acre of land shall be housed or maintained.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4954830; v33 updated 2026-04-22; through 04-22-2026).
Full Breakdown
Toms River Township limits livestock density under Chapter 165, Article IV: no more than one cow or one horse per acre, and no more than seven goats or seven sheep per acre. Crucially, § 165-19 confines these specific density standards to commercial farms with 10 or more animals of a given type, 4-H projects, personal riding horses, and pre-existing riding academies are expressly exempted. The Superintendent of Buildings reviews barn and farm building plans against these standards before issuing permits or certificates of occupancy.
Violations & Fines
Violators face a fine up to $200 (or up to 90 days in the Ocean County jail for individuals); the Township may also withhold a general certificate of occupancy for noncompliant barns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a horse on my Toms River property?
How many goats can I keep per acre in Toms River?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Toms River
How Toms River compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Toms River to another location·View the New Jersey animal ordinances overview
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