Chickens & Livestock: Bergenfield vs Hackensack
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Bergenfield, NJ and Hackensack, NJ?
Bergenfield and Hackensack have similar restriction levels.
Bergenfield, NJ
Bergen County
Bergenfield prohibits keeping chickens, roosters, hoofed animals, pigs, and other farm animals on any premises within the borough.
View full Bergenfield rules →Hackensack, NJ
Bergen County
Bergen County does not regulate backyard chickens or livestock at the county level. Each of the 70 municipalities sets its own rules through local zoning and animal control ordinances, with substantial variation across towns.
View full Hackensack rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bergenfield | Hackensack |
|---|---|---|
| Chickens | Prohibited borough-wide | - |
| Roosters | Prohibited | Commonly prohibited |
| Pigs | Prohibited even as pets | - |
| Hoofed Animals | Prohibited | - |
| Regulating body | - | Municipalities, not county |
| State law | - | Right to Farm Act applies |
| Permits required | - | In most towns |
| Number of municipalities | - | 70 separate codes |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bergenfield FAQ
Can I keep backyard chickens or hens in Bergenfield?
No. Bergenfield's code prohibits keeping chickens, roosters, and other fowl on any premises in the borough, regardless of lot size or whether they are kept as pets or for egg production.
Are pot-bellied pigs or miniature pigs allowed as pets?
No. The ordinance specifically includes pigs, including those bred as pets, in its list of prohibited farm animals. Owners would need to remove the animal or face Board of Health enforcement.
Hackensack FAQ
Does Bergen County have a countywide chicken ordinance?
No. Bergen County does not regulate backyard poultry or livestock. Rules are set entirely by each of the 70 municipalities through their zoning and animal control codes.
Can I keep a rooster in Bergen County?
Most Bergen County municipalities prohibit roosters in residential zones because of noise complaints. Check your specific town's ordinance before acquiring one.
Are goats or pigs allowed?
Generally no in residential zones. Some larger-lot or agricultural-zoned areas may allow them with permits, but most Bergen County towns prohibit livestock.
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