Permit Requirements: Edison vs New Brunswick
How do permit requirements rules compare between Edison, NJ and New Brunswick, NJ?
Edison and New Brunswick have similar restriction levels.
Edison, NJ
Middlesex County
A zoning permit from the Edison Zoning Officer is required for any fence under Chapter 37. The application must include a current survey or plot plan showing the proposed fence location and the distances to all lot lines.
View full Edison rules →New Brunswick, NJ
Middlesex County
Middlesex County issues no fence permits for private land. Fence permitting is handled by each municipality's zoning or building office, so apply through your town rather than the county.
View full New Brunswick rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Edison | New Brunswick |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Edison Code Ch. 37 (Zoning) | - |
| Zoning Permit | Required for all fences | - |
| Submittal | Survey or plot plan + application + fee | - |
| UCC Building Permit | Only for fences over 6 ft, walls, pool barriers | - |
| Issuing Office | Planning and Zoning Division, 732-248-7241 | - |
| Appeal | Zoning Board of Adjustment | - |
| County permit | - | None issued |
| Who permits | - | Municipal zoning office |
| Legal basis | - | NJ MLUL 40:55D |
| UCC | - | Enforced locally |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Edison FAQ
Do I need a permit to replace my existing fence in Edison?
Yes if you are installing a new fence, even as a replacement, you need a Chapter 37 zoning permit. If you are simply repairing in place with the same height, location, and materials, the Zoning Officer may treat it as ordinary maintenance, but you should confirm with the Planning and Zoning Division before starting work.
Does Edison require a building permit on top of the zoning permit?
Not for a typical residential fence of 6 feet or less - the NJ Uniform Construction Code exempts that from a construction permit. You will need a UCC building permit if the fence exceeds 6 feet, is a masonry wall, or serves as a swimming-pool barrier under Chapter 17.
New Brunswick FAQ
Does Middlesex County issue fence permits?
No. Fence permits are handled by your municipality's zoning or building department, not the county.
Do I need a permit to build a fence?
Usually a municipal zoning permit is required. Confirm the threshold with your town's zoning office before you install.
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