Fence Regulations in Toms River, NJ: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Toms River or are thinking about moving there, fence regulations are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Toms River has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of fence regulations, and some of them might surprise you.

Height Limits

Toms River limits fences to 48 inches in front yards (between building line and street) with openness requirements, and 72 inches in rear and side yards. Fences within 20 feet of any body of water must be open and not exceed 48 inches.

Key details: Front Yard Max: 48 inches (66% open). Rear/Side Max: 72 inches. Near Water: 48 inches, 66% open (within 20 ft). Fine: Up to $1,000.

Violations carry fines of up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to 60 days, or both.

Permit Requirements

Toms River requires a zoning permit for all fence construction. No UCC construction permit is needed for fences (except pool enclosures). The zoning review process takes up to 10 business days, with a $75 resubmission fee if denied.

Key details: Permit Type: Zoning permit (no UCC). Review Time: Up to 10 business days. Resubmission Fee: $75. Pool Fences: Also need UCC permit.

Constructing a fence without a zoning permit or in violation of the code carries fines up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to 60 days, or both.

Neighbor Fence Rules

New Jersey has no statutory requirement for neighbors to share fence costs. In Toms River, all supporting members must face the fence owner's property (the finished side faces the neighbor). Fences may not be built on easements or in the public right-of-way.

Key details: Cost Sharing: Not required by NJ law. Finished Side: Must face neighbor. Easement Construction: Prohibited. Fence Tax: None assessed.

Building on easements or rights-of-way results in mandatory removal. Fence code violations carry fines up to $1,000.

The rules around neighbor fence rules in Toms River lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

The Bottom Line

Toms River's fence regulations 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 Toms River is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Toms River's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.