Union City, NJ Building Setbacks & Zoning: Setback Rules (2026)

Setbacks in Hudson County reflect the region's extraordinary density. Jersey City Zoning Ordinance establishes setbacks by district: R-1 Single Family (15 ft front, 5 ft side, 20 ft rear), R-1A (10 ft front, 5 ft side, 15 ft rear), R-3 Rowhouse (0 ft side, 10 ft front, 20 ft rear reflecting brownstone typology), R-5 Mid-rise (variable), and R-6 High-rise (large front and side setbacks from buffer requirements). Commercial zones have minimal setbacks. Hoboken's Zoning Ordinance §196 reflects its dense 1880s grid with zero side setbacks on most brownstone blocks, minimal front setbacks (0-10 ft), and varying rear yard requirements typically 15-30% of lot depth. Union City, West New York, and North Bergen follow similar dense-urban typologies. Corner lots in Jersey City must meet front-yard setback on both street-facing sides. Accessory structures (sheds, garages) typically require 3-5 foot rear setbacks. Encroachments for bay windows, stoops, cornices, and fire escapes have specific allowances in the NJ UCC. Variances require formal application to the local Zoning Board of Adjustment with notice to adjacent property owners and public hearing. Hardship (c) and flexible (c2) variances possible under N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70.