Before You Build in Brick, NJ: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

New Jersey has no statutory cost-sharing requirement for boundary fences. In Brick Township, fence placement must comply with setback requirements. Boundary disputes are civil matters between neighbors.

Brick Township regulates fence heights through Chapter 245 (Land Use). In the R-M Multifamily Zone, patio/deck fences cannot exceed 5 feet. At street intersections, no fence over 3 feet is permitted within the sight triangle (30 feet from the intersection).

Brick Township requires a zoning permit for fence construction. The Zoning Officer reviews all applications. Prior approvals may include engineering or environmental permits depending on the property's location and conditions.

Brick Township requires all swimming pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high per the NJ UCC (N.J.A.C. 5:23). The local code adds that fences must be at least 6 feet from the pool water's edge. Pool barriers must be permanent, non-climbable, with self-closing, self-latching gates.

Brick Township requires building permits for swimming pools, with final engineering inspection before certificate of occupancy. In-ground pools are prohibited in front yards. Ground cover disturbed by construction must be restored to the Municipal Engineer's satisfaction.

Above-ground pools in Brick Township must meet the same area, yard, and building requirements as accessory structures. Building and zoning permits are required. The 48-inch barrier requirement applies to all pool types.

Brick Township does not have a specific ADU ordinance. New Jersey lacks a statewide ADU mandate. Single-family zones typically do not permit second dwelling units. A use variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment would likely be required.

Converting a garage to living space in Brick Township may require a zoning variance if it eliminates required off-street parking. Building permits are required for all structural changes. The Zoning Board of Adjustment reviews variance applications.

Brick Township does not separately list 'carport' as a permitted accessory use in Chapter 245 (Land Use); a carport is treated as an accessory structure subject to the same setback, height, and lot-coverage rules as detached garages and other accessory buildings. Following the Council's March 2023 amendments, accessory structures in single-family residential zones are limited to 12 feet in height and must sit behind the front line of the principal building, with side and rear yard setbacks tied to the structure's footprint and the underlying zone's Schedule of Area, Yard and Building Requirements (Section 245-10).

Brick Township limits storage sheds to 12 feet in height in single-family residential zones. Sheds up to 100 sq ft must be set back at least half their height from side/rear lines. Sheds over 100 sq ft must meet full zone setback requirements.

All open burning is prohibited in Brick Township except as approved by the Bureau of Fire Safety. The township adopts the NJ Uniform Fire Code (N.J.A.C. 5:70) enforced by the Joint Board of Fire Commissioners. Violations may carry fines up to $5,000.

Recreational fires and fire pits in Brick Township are regulated under the NJ Uniform Fire Code. Permanent fire pits require a permit. Recreational fires must not exceed 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height. Fires can be ordered extinguished if they cause smoke complaints.

Brick Township has a Shade Tree Commission (Chapter 64) that oversees public tree care. Property owners are responsible for maintaining trees on their property. The township provides tree and landscape services through its Department of Public Works.

Water use restrictions in Brick Township are primarily governed by NJDEP at the state level. The Brick Township Municipal Utilities Authority manages the local water supply. Mandatory restrictions may be imposed during drought emergencies declared by the Governor.

Brick Township regulates tree removal through its land use and property maintenance codes. Tree removal on residential property generally requires verification with the Zoning Office. The Shade Tree Commission oversees public tree removal and replacement.