Fair Lawn vs Garfield
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Fair Lawn, NJ and Garfield, NJ?
Fair Lawn and Garfield have similar restriction levels.
Fair Lawn, NJ
Bergen County
Fair Lawn caps building and impervious surface coverage by zoning district, generally limiting principal building footprint and total impervious area to protect drainage and neighborhood character.
View full Fair Lawn rules →Garfield, NJ
Bergen County
Garfield caps how much of a residential rear yard may be covered by detached accessory buildings, in addition to district-specific lot coverage percentages set by zone.
View full Garfield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fair Lawn | Garfield |
|---|---|---|
| Building Coverage | 25-30% typical | - |
| Impervious Coverage | 40-50% typical | - |
| Counted Surfaces | Driveway, patio, pool | - |
| Code Section | Chapter 425 | - |
| Accessory rear-yard cap | - | 30 percent aggregate |
| Accessory side/rear setback | - | 3 feet minimum |
| Front setback for accessory | - | 50 feet minimum |
| District coverage | - | Per Zoning Chart |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fair Lawn FAQ
Does my driveway count toward lot coverage in Fair Lawn?
Yes. Driveways, patios, walkways, pool decks, and other impervious surfaces count toward total impervious coverage limits, separate from building footprint coverage.
What if I want to expand my driveway beyond the limit?
You would need to seek a variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment or use pervious paving materials that may not count toward impervious totals, subject to engineering review.
Garfield FAQ
How big can my shed and garage be combined in Garfield?
Together, all detached accessory buildings in a residential rear yard cannot occupy more than 30 percent of that rear yard's area under Article IX of the zoning code.
Where can I find Garfield's lot coverage percentages?
District-specific lot coverage maximums for principal buildings are listed in Garfield's Zoning Chart of Requirements, which is published on the city's official website.
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