New Jersey Right to Farm Act and Livestock Rules

Under N.J.S.A. 4:1C-1 et seq., commercial farms meeting eligibility thresholds are protected from municipal ordinances that would restrict generally accepted agricultural management practices. Non-commercial backyard chickens and livestock keeping remain subject to municipal zoning. The State Agriculture Development Committee adopts agricultural management practices that preempt conflicting local rules. Farmers must still comply with statewide animal welfare statutes under N.J.S.A. 4:22 and Department of Agriculture humane standards in N.J.A.C. 2:8.

Municipalities cannot enforce ordinances against protected commercial farms; violations of state animal welfare standards carry fines and possible criminal penalties.