Fort Lee vs Garfield
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Fort Lee, NJ and Garfield, NJ?
Fort Lee and Garfield have similar restriction levels.
Fort Lee, NJ
Bergen County
Fort Lee caps building and impervious surface coverage by zoning district to manage stormwater, preserve green space, and prevent overbuilding on Bergen County lots.
View full Fort Lee 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 | Fort Lee | Garfield |
|---|---|---|
| Building coverage | Often 25 to 35 percent | - |
| Impervious cap | Often around 50 percent | - |
| Includes | Driveways, patios, pools | - |
| Stormwater review | Above thresholds | - |
| 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.
Fort Lee FAQ
Does my driveway count toward lot coverage in Fort Lee?
Yes. Most paved or otherwise impervious surfaces, including driveways, walkways, patios, and pool decks, count toward total impervious coverage limits set by the zoning district.
What happens if I exceed Fort Lee lot coverage limits?
You will need a variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment or must remove the excess coverage. Continuing without approval risks fines and orders to restore the lot.
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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