Chickens & Livestock: Hackensack vs Teaneck
How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Hackensack, NJ and Teaneck, NJ?
Hackensack and Teaneck have similar restriction levels.
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 →Teaneck, NJ
Bergen County
Teaneck Township prohibits keeping chickens, roosters, livestock, and farm animals at residential properties under its general zoning and animal regulations.
View full Teaneck rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hackensack | Teaneck |
|---|---|---|
| Regulating body | Municipalities, not county | - |
| Roosters | Commonly prohibited | Prohibited |
| State law | Right to Farm Act applies | - |
| Permits required | In most towns | - |
| Number of municipalities | 70 separate codes | - |
| Chickens allowed | - | Generally no |
| Livestock | - | Prohibited residential |
| Variance required | - | Yes for poultry |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Teaneck FAQ
Can I keep backyard chickens in Teaneck?
Teaneck zoning does not list chickens as a permitted accessory use in residential districts, so backyard flocks generally require a use variance from the Zoning Board.
Are roosters ever allowed?
Roosters are not permitted in residential zones because of noise impacts and the township's lack of agricultural zoning.
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