Accessory Structures in Englewood, NJ: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Englewood or are thinking about moving there, accessory structures are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Englewood has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of accessory structures, and some of them might surprise you.

ADU Rules

Englewood does not generally authorize accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a freestanding permitted use in its one-family residence districts. Chapter 250 (Land Use) of the Englewood Code, adopted under the New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-1 et seq.), limits residential zones to one-family dwellings plus accessory buildings/uses with coverage caps. Accessory apartments are addressed only through the city's affordable housing program and overlay zones (Ordinance 23-22 and successor amendments).

Key details: Local Code: Englewood Code Ch. 250 (Land Use), Part 4 (Zoning). Enabling Statute: Municipal Land Use Law, N.J.S.A. 40:55D-1 et seq.. ADU as Permitted Use: Not generally permitted in one-family R districts. Accessory Building Coverage Cap: 20% (1-story principal) / 15% (multi-story). Affordable Accessory Apartments: Overlay Zones Ordinance 23-22 / Fair Share Plan.

Establishing a second dwelling unit on a one-family lot without zoning approval is a violation of Chapter 250 and may result in zoning notices of violation, denial of certificates of occupancy, municipal court fines, and orders to remove the unauthorized unit. Construction of any addition or accessory structure without a Uniform Construction Code permit (N.J.A.C. 5:23) can also trigger stop-work orders and separate UCC penalties. Landlords renting an unapproved second unit risk rental-license issues and tenant remedies under New Jersey landlord-tenant law.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Englewood actively enforces its adu rules requirements.

Shed Rules

Englewood regulates sheds and accessory buildings under Chapter 250 Land Use, requiring compliance with district setback rules, lot coverage limits, and building permit review through the Code Enforcement Department.

Key details: Code Source: Chapter 250 Land Use. Coverage Cap: 20% rear yard, one story. Permit Office: Code Enforcement, City Hall. Review: Setback by zoning district.

Violations include erecting an accessory structure without a permit, placing a shed inside required setbacks, exceeding coverage limits, or building in a front yard. Enforcement may require removal or relocation of the structure.

The Bottom Line

Englewood's accessory structures rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Englewood is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Englewood's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.