Can I keep chickens in Bayonne, NJ?
No — Bayonne does not allow backyard chickens in residential zones. (§ 21-30.A (Ch. 21: Health Regulations), verified June 2026)
The full rules
| Chickens allowed | No |
|---|---|
| Code section | § 21-30.A (Ch. 21: Health Regulations) |
Bayonne enacted a complete ban on farm animals and chickens in 2022 (Ordinance O-22-37), codified at section 21-30.A of the Health Regulations. The prohibition applies in all zones. Homing and racing pigeons were specifically exempted by amendment. Residents keeping animals before the ordinance who registered with the Health Department may continue until those animals die.
Common questions
Can I keep chickens in Bayonne?
No — chickens are not allowed in Bayonne (§ 21-30.A (Ch. 21: Health Regulations)).
What law covers backyard chickens in Bayonne?
§ 21-30.A (Ch. 21: Health Regulations). Read the official text at the source linked on this page.
The actual law
§ 21-30.A (Ch. 21: Health Regulations) — read the official code
“Bayonne to approve farm animal ban but will exclude homing pigeons. Ordinance O-22-37 bans farm animals including chickens, ducks, geese, pheasants, turkeys, quail, and other fowl in all zones citywide. [Hudson Reporter, September 15, 2022]” source
“City of Bayonne, NJ Chapter 21: Health Regulations, section 21-30.A - Farm Animals, Chickens and Pigeons Prohibited [eCode360 confirmed via search; JS-rendered]” source
Last verified June 15, 2026. Always confirm with your municipality — HOA rules can be stricter than city code. How we verify →
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