3 rules for unincorporated Union County, New Jersey.
Verified from official government sources
Union County zoning setbacks vary by municipality and district. Elizabeth Land Development Code Chapter 20 establishes R-1 front setbacks of 25 ft, side 5-8 ft, rear 25 ft. Westfield §13.03 requires 30 ft front, 10 ft side, 35 ft rear in RS-24. Summit requires larger setbacks in RA/RB. Accessory structures have reduced rear setbacks 3-5 ft. Corner lot side-yard requirements apply. NJ Municipal Land Use Law N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70 governs variance procedure through municipal Zoning Boards of Adjustment.
Union County height limits vary by municipality and zone. Elizabeth R-1 allows 35 ft/2.5 stories; commercial zones vary. Westfield residential 35 ft (§13.03); downtown mixed-use up to 50 ft. Summit residential 35 ft. Elizabeth Midtown and Bayway industrial zones permit taller structures. Port Newark-Elizabeth has no height limit within Port Authority jurisdiction. Measured from average finished grade. Chimneys, elevators, and antennas exempt to limited additional height. FAA Part 77 airspace review required near EWR for any structure over 200 ft.
Union County lot coverage limits range 25-60% depending on zone. Elizabeth R-1 permits 35% building coverage plus 25% additional impervious. Westfield RS-24 caps building coverage at 20%, RS-8 at 30%. Summit RA 25% building coverage. NJ Stormwater Management Rules N.J.A.C. 7:8 apply to sites disturbing 0.25 acres or adding 1,000+ sq ft impervious. Elizabeth and Linden require stormwater review for impervious increases. Rahway River and Elizabeth River watersheds face additional runoff controls. Permeable pavers may receive partial credit.
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