Brick's Accessory Structures: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles accessory structures a little differently. In Brick, New Jersey, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Carport Rules

Brick Township does not separately list 'carport' as a permitted accessory use in Chapter 245 (Land Use); a carport is treated as an accessory structure subject to the same setback, height, and lot-coverage rules as detached garages and other accessory buildings. Following the Council's March 2023 amendments, accessory structures in single-family residential zones are limited to 12 feet in height and must sit behind the front line of the principal building, with side and rear yard setbacks tied to the structure's footprint and the underlying zone's Schedule of Area, Yard and Building Requirements (Section 245-10).

Key details: Code Section: Ch. 245 Art. IV (General District Regulations). Listed as 'Carport'?: No - regulated as accessory structure. Max Height (single-family): 12 feet (March 2023 amendment). Footprint <= 100 sq ft: Setback >= 1/2 structure height. Footprint > 100 sq ft: Full zone setbacks (Sched. Sec. 245-10).

Building a carport without a zoning permit, exceeding the 12-foot accessory-structure height in a single-family zone, encroaching on required setbacks, or placing the carport in front of the principal building line is a violation of Chapter 245. General penalty under N.J.S.A. 40:49-5 is up to $2,000, up to 90 days imprisonment, and/or up to 90 days community service per offense. Stop-work orders may issue for unpermitted construction.

ADU Rules

Brick Township does not have a specific ADU ordinance. New Jersey lacks a statewide ADU mandate. Single-family zones typically do not permit second dwelling units. A use variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment would likely be required.

Key details: ADU Ordinance: None. NJ Statewide Mandate: None. Variance Required: Use variance likely needed. Max Fine: $2,000.

Creating an unauthorized dwelling unit is a zoning violation with fines up to $2,000 or 90 days imprisonment.

This is one of the stricter rules in Brick's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Shed Rules

Brick Township limits storage sheds to 12 feet in height in single-family residential zones. Sheds up to 100 sq ft must be set back at least half their height from side/rear lines. Sheds over 100 sq ft must meet full zone setback requirements.

Key details: Max Height: 12 feet. Under 100 sq ft: Setback = 1/2 structure height. Over 100 sq ft: Full zone setback applies. Permit Required: Zoning permit.

Building without permits or in violation of setbacks results in code enforcement action. General penalties up to $2,000.

Garage Conversions

Converting a garage to living space in Brick Township may require a zoning variance if it eliminates required off-street parking. Building permits are required for all structural changes. The Zoning Board of Adjustment reviews variance applications.

Key details: Parking Impact: May require variance. Permits: UCC building permit required. Fire/Egress: Must comply with all codes. Max Fine: $2,000.

Unauthorized conversions face fines up to $2,000 or 90 days imprisonment. Stop-work orders for unpermitted work.

This is one of the stricter rules in Brick's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Brick is tougher than many cities when it comes to accessory structures. Out of the 4 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Brick, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

These rules come from Brick's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.