Paterson Chicken Laws

Are chickens allowed in Paterson?No
How many chickens can you have?0
Can you have roosters in Paterson?No
Chicken coop placement rules:Not applicable
Application process:Not applicable
More information:Paterson City Code

If you’re dreaming of starting a backyard chicken flock in Paterson, you may need to lower your expectations:

  • Keeping Live Chickens: The City of Paterson prohibits the keeping of live chickens, except for business establishments that sell live fowl to the public. 
  • Roosters are also prohibited.
  • License Requirement: No other live fowl may be kept within the City without a license issued by the Health Division. The license will specify the number of fowl that may be kept, the type of enclosure that must be used, and any other requirements.
  • Enclosure and Sanitation: Fowl (other than chickens) must be confined in a suitable enclosure that is kept in a clean and sanitary condition. The enclosure must be subject to inspection by the inspectors of the Health Division.
  • Requirements for Business Establishments: Business establishments that sell live poultry must comply with the following requirements:
    • The building or place must be used for the keeping, slaughtering, and selling of poultry only.
    • The building or place must be paved with material impervious to moisture and must be properly sloped to a well-trapped inlet having a direct connection with a sewer.
    • The building or place must be at all times kept in a sanitary condition.

As the years go by, cities may change their regulations regarding backyard chickens. It’s important to contact officials in Paterson for the most up-to-date information.

See other New Jersey chicken ordinances.

Last updated: 4/25/24