I recently sent the following request to the Borough Clerk:

I am interested in raising 1-2 small pet goats in my fenced backyard. I have read both the general and health ordinances and was unable to find anything prohibiting this. Can you please review the ordinances and let me know, in writing, if there is anything that says I cannot do this.  

Please provide the specific ordinance that this would violate and any reasons that support this determination.

This is the response I received from the Borough Administrator about the goats. At least the Administrator actually responds to inquiries, unlike the Board of Health:

Mr. DelVecchio: According to the Borough Ordinance: In Residential A Zones, no land, building or structure shall be used and no building or structure shall be built, altered or erected on land to be used for any purpose other than as follows: a. One-family dwellings b. public parks and public recreation grounds

In speaking with the Borough Attorney with regard to your inquiry he explained that there is an implied prohibition as goats are not a commonly accepted house pet. Similarly there is no express prohibition against elephants, cattle, deer, etc. As you can see, it would be difficult to enumerate each and every animal that is prohibited. I hope you will find this information helpful. Christine Demiris, RMC Administrator/Borough Clerk Borough of New Milford Phone (201) 967-5044 x 7056 Fax (201) 262-7967 cdemiris@newmilfordboro.com

I am not sure how this tells me I can't have goats. Anyone have an explaination for me? As always, thank you for your support. Jeff