5 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 3 cities in Union County, New Jersey.
Verified from official government sources
New Jersey has no statewide ADU mandate. ADU permission depends on local zoning per NJ MLUL. Most Union County municipalities do not permit ADUs by right. Zoning board variance required in most communities.
Shed construction requires zoning permits from the local municipality. NJ UCC generally exempts sheds under 100–200 sq ft from building permits (varies by municipality). Must comply with setback requirements.
Garage conversions require building permits per NJ UCC (N.J.A.C. 5:23) and local zoning approval. Must maintain minimum off-street parking requirements. Full NJ UCC compliance for habitable space conversion.
Elizabeth and Union County municipalities require building permits for carports under N.J.A.C. 5:23. Setbacks match accessory structure zoning (typically 3–5 ft side, 10 ft rear).
NJ's 2024 ADU law (N.J.S.A. 52:27D-123.16) requires municipalities to permit ADUs by right — provides pathway for foundation-built tiny homes. Tiny homes on wheels classified as RVs. Min 400 sq ft typical.
3 cities in Union County have their own accessory structures rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
See every category we cover for Union County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Union County Ordinance Hub →