Lot Coverage Limits: Hackensack vs Paramus
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Hackensack, NJ and Paramus, NJ?
Hackensack and Paramus have similar restriction levels.
Hackensack, NJ
Bergen County
Hackensack regulates the percentage of a lot covered by buildings and impervious surfaces to manage stormwater and neighborhood character. Residential districts typically permit 30-40% building coverage, with higher allowances for total impervious coverage including driveways and patios.
View full Hackensack rules βParamus, NJ
Bergen County
Paramus residential zones R-75 and R-100 cap building coverage at 25% and total impervious coverage at 50%. The Neighborhood Business zone allows 80% impervious; Conservation/Recreation just 20%.
View full Paramus rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hackensack | Paramus |
|---|---|---|
| Building coverage | 30-40% residential | - |
| Impervious coverage | 50-70% typical | - |
| Includes | Driveways, patios, pools | - |
| Stormwater | NJ rules may apply | - |
| Variance | Zoning Board approval | - |
| R-75/R-100 Building | - | 25% maximum |
| R-75/R-100 Impervious | - | 50% maximum |
| R-AH Impervious | - | 60% maximum |
| NB Impervious | - | 80% maximum |
| CR Building/Impervious | - | 5% / 20% |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Hackensack FAQ
What counts toward lot coverage in Hackensack?
Building coverage counts only structures with roofs. Impervious coverage adds driveways, walkways, patios, decks, and pool decks. Both metrics have separate limits in zoning.
Can I add a patio if I'm at the lot coverage limit in Hackensack?
Not without a variance or removing other impervious surfaces. Pervious paving alternatives may also be considered, depending on local zoning interpretation.
Paramus FAQ
Does a Paramus driveway count toward impervious coverage?
Yes. Driveways, patios, walkways, decks with solid surfaces, and pools all count as impervious coverage and are added to building footprint when calculating total impervious limits.
What if my Paramus lot already exceeds the impervious cap?
Existing nonconforming coverage may continue but cannot be expanded. Adding any new impervious surface to a noncompliant lot requires a variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
Compare other topics
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