Hackensack vs Mahwah
How do structure height limits rules compare between Hackensack, NJ and Mahwah, NJ?
Hackensack and Mahwah have similar restriction levels.
Hackensack, NJ
Bergen County
Hackensack caps building heights based on zoning district. Single-family residential districts typically limit structures to 35 feet or 2.5 stories. Mixed-use and downtown redevelopment zones permit taller buildings, with maximums set through redevelopment plans and site plan review.
View full Hackensack rules →Mahwah, NJ
Bergen County
Mahwah caps building height by zoning district under Chapter 24, with garden apartments limited to 2.5 stories or 35 feet maximum.
View full Mahwah rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hackensack | Mahwah |
|---|---|---|
| R-1/R-2 limit | 35 feet or 2.5 stories | - |
| Commercial districts | 40-60 feet typical | - |
| Downtown redevelopment | High-rise permitted | - |
| Measurement | From average grade | - |
| Penthouses | Limited extensions allowed | - |
| Garden apartment max | - | 2.5 stories or 35 feet |
| Parapet allowance | - | 4 feet over limit |
| Exempt features | - | Spires chimneys flagpoles |
| Reference document | - | Area Bulk Yard Schedule |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Hackensack FAQ
How tall can I build a single-family home in Hackensack?
In typical R-1 and R-2 zones, residential buildings are limited to about 35 feet or 2.5 stories. Confirm exact limits with the bulk standards table for your specific district.
Why are some Hackensack downtown buildings so tall?
The city has adopted redevelopment plans for designated downtown and transit-oriented areas that permit substantially taller mixed-use towers, often exceeding standard zoning height limits.
Mahwah FAQ
Are chimneys and rooftop equipment counted toward height?
No. Mahwah excludes chimneys, spires, cupolas, flagpoles, water towers, and necessary mechanical appurtenances from district height limits.
How tall can a garden apartment building be?
Garden apartments in Mahwah cannot exceed two and one-half stories or 35 feet, whichever is less, under the township's zoning ordinance.
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