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

Freehold Borough allows fences up to 6 feet in rear and side yards. Front yard decorative fences are limited to 4 feet. Fences exceeding 6 feet require a construction permit. Corner lot fences near intersections must maintain sight triangle clearance.

New Jersey has no statewide fence cost-sharing law. Each property owner is responsible for their own fence. NJ common law recognizes the spite fence doctrine, which prohibits fences erected solely to annoy a neighbor. Freehold Borough requires the finished side of fences to face the neighbor.

Freehold Borough requires a zoning application for all new fences. Construction permits are required for fences over 6 feet or fences enclosing swimming pools. Contact the Construction Department at 732-462-4903 for permit requirements.

Swimming pools in Freehold Borough must comply with the NJ Uniform Construction Code and federal VGB Act (anti-entrapment). Building permits are required for all pool installations. Pools must have compliant drain covers, barriers, and safety equipment.

Above-ground pools in Freehold Borough require building permits under the NJ Uniform Construction Code. Pool barriers of at least 48 inches apply to all pool types including above-ground. Zoning application needed as pools count toward lot coverage. Pools are considered accessory structures.

NJ Barrier Subcode (N.J.A.C. 5:23-2.14(b)) requires pool barriers of at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Freehold Borough requires construction permits for all pools and pool fences. Non-compliant pools must be brought up to code at time of property sale.

Freehold Borough does not explicitly permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by right. NJ has no statewide ADU mandate as of 2025. ADU legality depends on the Borough's zoning ordinance (Title 18). NJ legislation has been considered but not enacted. Borough density and lot sizes may limit ADU feasibility.

Garage conversions in Freehold Borough require building permits under the NJ Uniform Construction Code (N.J.A.C. 5:23). Converting a garage to living space must meet residential building standards including heating, electrical, egress, and fire safety. Zoning approval needed for change of use.

Carports are accessory structures regulated by Freehold Borough Code Title 18 (Zoning). A zoning permit and a separate New Jersey Uniform Construction Code (N.J.A.C. 5:23) construction permit are required. Setbacks, lot coverage and height vary by zone - confirm with the Zoning Officer at 732-462-4903 opt. 4.

Sheds in Freehold Borough require a zoning application and construction permit. Accessory structures over 192 sq ft must be built with materials similar to the principal structure. Sheds are permitted only in rear yards. On corner lots, sheds cannot project beyond the principal structure's street-facing line.

Fire pits are permitted in Freehold Borough when contained in a noncombustible vessel. Fires must be kept at least 10-15 feet from structures, constantly attended, and covered with mesh screening to prevent sparks. Only clean firewood may be burned.

Open burning is generally prohibited in New Jersey under NJDEP regulations (N.J.A.C. 7:27-2). Exceptions exist for small recreational campfires in approved containers. Burning of leaves, brush, yard waste, garbage, and treated lumber is prohibited.

Tree removal in Freehold Borough may require a permit depending on the tree's size and location. NJ DEP model ordinance requires applications for trees over 6 inches DBH on private property and 2.5 inches for street trees. Borough Shade Tree Commission may review removals.

Water restrictions in Freehold Borough are governed by NJ DEP during drought emergencies. The NJ Water Supply Authority monitors conditions statewide. During declared droughts, odd/even watering schedules and time-of-day restrictions may be imposed.

Freehold Borough may regulate street trees through a Shade Tree Commission under N.J.S.A. 40:64-1 et seq. Vegetation within 10 feet of roadways and 25 feet of intersections must be kept below 30 inches for public safety. Property owners are responsible for maintaining trees on their lots.