ADU Rules: Englewood vs Fort Lee
How do adu rules rules compare between Englewood, NJ and Fort Lee, NJ?
Englewood and Fort Lee have similar restriction levels.
Englewood, NJ
Bergen County
Englewood does not generally authorize accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a freestanding permitted use in its one-family residence districts. Chapter 250 (Land Use) of the Englewood Code, adopted under the New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-1 et seq.), limits residential zones to one-family dwellings plus accessory buildings/uses with coverage caps. Accessory apartments are addressed only through the city's affordable housing program and overlay zones (Ordinance 23-22 and successor amendments).
View full Englewood rules →Fort Lee, NJ
Bergen County
Fort Lee restricts accessory dwelling units through its zoning code, which generally limits residential lots to single-family use without separate secondary dwellings.
View full Fort Lee rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Englewood | Fort Lee |
|---|---|---|
| Local Code | Englewood Code Ch. 250 (Land Use), Part 4 (Zoning) | - |
| Enabling Statute | Municipal Land Use Law, N.J.S.A. 40:55D-1 et seq. | - |
| ADU as Permitted Use | Not generally permitted in one-family R districts | - |
| Accessory Building Coverage Cap | 20% (1-story principal) / 15% (multi-story) | - |
| Affordable Accessory Apartments | Overlay Zones Ordinance 23-22 / Fair Share Plan | - |
| Variance Path | Use variance under N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70(d) | - |
| Code Source | - | eCode360 Chapter 350 |
| Permit | - | Zoning approval required |
| Variance | - | Often required |
| Enforcement | - | Zoning Officer |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Englewood FAQ
Can I build a backyard ADU or in-law suite in Englewood?
Not as-of-right. Englewood's zoning code limits one-family residence districts to a single principal dwelling plus accessory buildings that are not separate dwelling units. To add a second unit you typically must qualify under the city's affordable housing overlay program or obtain a use variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment under N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70(d).
What's the difference between an accessory building and an accessory dwelling unit here?
Englewood's zoning permits accessory buildings such as detached garages, sheds, and similar structures within coverage limits, but those structures cannot be used as separate dwelling units with their own kitchen and sanitary facilities. A second residential unit, attached or detached, is treated as a second dwelling and requires zoning approval through the affordable housing overlay or a use variance.
Fort Lee FAQ
Can I add an ADU to my Fort Lee single-family home?
Generally no without a variance. Fort Lee's zoning limits residential lots to one principal dwelling. Contact the Land Use Office to discuss feasibility and any required board approvals.
Are basement apartments allowed in Fort Lee?
Separate basement apartments are not broadly permitted. Any second living unit must satisfy zoning, building, and fire codes, and typically requires a variance from the Zoning Board.
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