Accessory Structures in Edison, NJ (2026)
5 verified accessory structures rules for Edison, New Jersey, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
New Jersey has no statewide ADU preemption, so accessory dwelling units in Edison are governed entirely by Chapter 37 (Zoning). Edison's zoning code does not list ADUs as a permitted use in residential zones - any ADU proposal requires a use variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Edison ADU General Rules
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Because Edison's Chapter 37 does not permit ADUs, the permit process starts with a use variance application to the Zoning Board of Adjustment under N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70(d). Only after variance approval can the homeowner apply for NJ UCC subcode permits to actually build the unit.
Edison ADU Permit Process
Heavy RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Edison does not impose a dedicated ADU impact fee. The New Jersey statewide non-residential development fee (2.5% under N.J.S.A. 52:27D-329.2) does not apply to residential ADUs, but Township residential development fees, Planning Board escrow, and UCC subcode fees still apply.
Edison ADU Impact and Affordable-Housing Fees
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Sheds in Edison require a Chapter 37 zoning permit with a plot plan. Maximum height is 15 feet, aggregate accessory-structure ground coverage may not exceed 10% of the lot or 35% of the rear yard (whichever is less), and the zoning application fee is $100.
Edison Shed Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Converting an Edison garage into living space requires zoning sign-off plus full NJ UCC subcode permits. Converting to an independent dwelling unit is treated as creating a second dwelling unit and requires a use variance because Edison's Chapter 37 does not permit ADUs as of right.
Edison Garage Conversion Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Middlesex County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Edison city rules.
Accessory Structures in Middlesex County →