Accessory Structures in Lakewood, NJ (2026)
4 verified accessory structures rules for Lakewood, New Jersey, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Lakewood does not have a specific ADU ordinance. New Jersey lacks a statewide ADU mandate. Single-family zones generally do not permit second dwelling units. A use variance would be required.
Lakewood ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Rules
Heavy RestrictionsShed Rules
Lakewood defines a shed as a 1-story accessory building with a maximum footprint of 200 sq ft and maximum height of 12 feet. Sheds may be placed 5 feet from side and rear property lines. No shed is permitted in the front yard setback. Permits are required for all shed sizes.
Lakewood Shed & Outbuilding Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Converting a garage to living space in Lakewood requires building permits and may require a zoning variance if required off-street parking is eliminated. The Unified Development Ordinance governs parking requirements by district.
Lakewood Garage Conversion Rules
Heavy RestrictionsCarport Rules
Lakewood Township regulates carports as accessory buildings under Chapter 18 (Unified Development Ordinance), Article IX (Zoning Districts and Regulations). Detached accessory buildings such as garages and carports must conform to the bulk schedule for the underlying residential zone, and a Zoning Permit plus a Building Permit under the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code (N.J.A.C. 5:23) must be obtained before construction.
Carport Rules in Lakewood Township
Some RestrictionsLooking for Ocean County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Lakewood city rules.
Accessory Structures in Ocean County →