Perth Amboy, NJ Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Perth Amboy City Code § 430-60(A)(5) draws the line for converting a garage into living space. It says no accessory building within any zone shall be used for residential purposes such as dwellings, sleeping quarters, kitchens or bathrooms. The code defines a private garage in § 430-5 as an enclosed building or enclosed space accessory to the principal building, providing storage for motor vehicles, in which no occupation, business or service for profit is carried on. A detached garage is therefore an accessory building, and turning it into an apartment, bedroom, kitchen or bathroom is barred in every zoning district.

The only alternative use is recreational. The same subsection permits use of accessory buildings for recreational purposes such as game rooms or play rooms, but only in residential zones. A garage in a commercial or industrial zone cannot take even that use.

An attached garage falls under § 430-60(A)(1), which says an accessory building attached to the principal building shall comply in all respects with the yard requirements of the principal building. Any work still needs a zoning permit: § 430-5 defines it as a document signed by the Zoning Officer, required before the erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration, conversion or installation of a structure or building, confirming compliance with Chapter 430 or a variance duly authorized by the appropriate municipal agency. A homeowner who wants a residential use the text bars would have to obtain that variance from the appropriate board first.