Lot Coverage Limits: Mahwah vs Paramus
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Mahwah, NJ and Paramus, NJ?
Mahwah and Paramus have similar restriction levels.
Mahwah, NJ
Bergen County
Bergen County does not regulate lot coverage. Municipal zoning ordinances establish maximum building and impervious coverage percentages, typically 25-35% building coverage and 40-60% total impervious coverage in residential zones.
View full Mahwah rules →Paramus, 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 →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mahwah | Paramus |
|---|---|---|
| Regulator | Municipal zoning | - |
| Building Coverage | 25 to 35 percent | - |
| Impervious Coverage | 40 to 60 percent | - |
| Soil Disturbance Review | 5,000 square feet | - |
| Soil District | Bergen County SCD | - |
| 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.
Mahwah FAQ
Does my driveway count toward lot coverage?
Yes. Most Bergen County municipalities count driveways, patios, and walkways as impervious coverage. Pervious pavers may receive partial credit depending on local code.
When does Bergen County Soil Conservation District review apply?
Projects disturbing 5,000 square feet or more of soil require Bergen County Soil Conservation District certification under New Jersey Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Act.
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
See how Mahwah and Paramus compare on other ordinance categories.
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