Long Branch, NJ Accessory Structures: Carport Rules (2026)

Chapter 345 of the Long Branch Code (Zoning) governs accessory structures, including carports. The Zoning Schedule of Permitted Uses lists private garages and similar covered parking as accessory uses in residential zones; an open-sided carport is treated as an accessory structure under Article III (General Regulations) and Article VI (Supplementary Regulations), and follows the same rules as detached garages, sheds, cabanas, and other accessory buildings rather than being singled out by name. In Residential Zones R-1 through R-8, or for any single-family property in any other zone, the combined floor area of all accessory buildings - including detached garages, cabanas, outbuildings, sheds, workshops, greenhouses, pool houses, and animal shelters - may not be greater than 50% of the footprint of the principal structure and may not exceed a total combined size of 700 square feet. Accessory buildings are limited to 1 1/2 stories and a 15-foot maximum height with a minimum setback of 10 feet; when approved as part of a site plan application, accessory buildings may be approved up to 25 feet in height, but for every vertical foot above 15 feet the minimum building setback is increased by two horizontal feet. The roof pitch of any accessory structure must match the roof pitch of the principal structure, and in no case may an accessory structure be taller than 25 feet or higher than the principal structure on the lot. Detached accessory structures may not be located in a front yard; if located in a side yard area they must conform to the side-yard requirements of the applicable zone schedule and must observe a rear-yard setback of not less than 10 feet. As a narrow exception, a single shed under 100 square feet may be located in a rear yard a minimum of five feet from the property line, with a maximum of two such sheds permitted per lot. Vertical parking garages are treated as accessory buildings within the zone of location, but must observe a setback of not less than 30 feet from any property line or the height of the structure, whichever is greater. A carport attached to the principal dwelling is part of the principal structure and must satisfy the principal-structure setbacks for the zone (Article XI Schedules of Lot, Yard and Bulk Requirements). A zoning permit is required prior to construction; a New Jersey Uniform Construction Code (N.J.A.C. 5:23) building permit is required for the structural work, and an electrical permit is required if the carport is wired or has lighting. Lots within the Coastal Area Facility Review Act (CAFRA) zone or special flood hazard areas mapped by FEMA may also require coastal/flood elevation review on top of the accessory-structure rules.