Paterson's Animal Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles animal ordinances a little differently. In Paterson, New Jersey, there are 6 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Chickens & Livestock

Paterson prohibits backyard chickens and all livestock in residential zones. The city's dense urban character with multi-family housing makes animal husbandry incompatible. Health department actively enforces violations.

Key details: Chickens: Prohibited residential. Livestock: Prohibited all zones. Urban Density: Multi-family dominant. Enforcement: Health department.

Unauthorized livestock: removal order. Nuisance conditions: $100 to $500/day. Board of health enforcement for sanitary violations.

Compared to other cities, Paterson takes a harder line on chickens & livestock. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Breed Restrictions

Paterson follows NJ state law with behavior-based dangerous dog designation. No breed-specific legislation. The city's dense neighborhoods make responsible dog ownership especially important for public safety.

Key details: Breed Bans: None (state law). Dangerous Dogs: Behavior-based. State Law: N.J.S.A. 4:19-17. Urban Context: Public safety priority.

Dangerous dog violation: significant fines, mandatory containment, liability insurance. Vicious dog: possible euthanasia order.

Beekeeping

Paterson may allow residential beekeeping with restrictions. NJ Apiary Act (N.J.S.A. 4:6-9.1) requires registration with NJ Department of Agriculture.

Key details: Hives: Typically 2 to 4 residential. Registration: NJ Dept of Agriculture. State Law: NJ Apiary Act (4:6-9.1). Setback: Varies by municipality.

Unauthorized hives: removal order. Nuisance complaints: mediation then fines. State registration violation: NJ Dept of Agriculture enforcement.

Dog Leash Laws

Paterson requires dogs to be under control at all times. Dog licensing required through municipal clerk (N.J.S.A. 4:19-15.2). Rabies vaccination mandatory.

Key details: Leash: Required in public. License: Annual, municipal clerk. State Law: N.J.S.A. 4:19-15.2. Rabies: Vaccination required.

Dog at large: $50 to $200. Unlicensed dog: $50 to $200. Failure to clean up: $100 to $500. Dangerous dog violation: significant fines + containment.

Wildlife Feeding

Paterson restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisance conditions.

Key details: Prohibited: Deer, coyotes, bears. Bird Feeders: May be restricted. Pet Food: Must not be left outside. Fines: $50 to $500.

Warnings for first offense. Fines typically $50 to $500. Repeat violations may result in misdemeanor charges in some jurisdictions.

Exotic Pets

Paterson restricts ownership of exotic and wild animals. Many species require special permits or are prohibited entirely for public safety.

Key details: Large Cats: Generally prohibited. Primates: Generally prohibited. Permits: Required for some species. Insurance: May be required.

Confiscation of prohibited animals. Fines $500 to $5,000. Criminal charges possible for dangerous species. Owner liable for damages from escaped animals.

This is one of the stricter rules in Paterson's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Paterson is tougher than many cities when it comes to animal ordinances. Out of the 6 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Paterson, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Paterson's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.