Understanding Different Types Of Land Zoning In New Jersey

There are several different types of land zoning categories. Among communities, they vary. What’s C-1 in a certain city may not be classified as C-1 in a different city. To signify the allowed usage of a physical geographic area, codes involving letters of the alphabet are used by local governments. Here’s an example:

  • Industrial – “I”
  • Commercial – “C”
  • Residential buildings – “R”

Ordinarily, a number is paired with these symbols. What does the number mean? It might indicate a specific square footage or acreage amount for a particular property, or it could specify the level of use.

Agricultural Zoning

If an agricultural industry’s economic viability needs to be maintained, and there are concerns about that in a community, agricultural zoning is usually used. Typically, this type of zoning limits development density. It may also restrict the land’s non-farm uses.

Industrial Zoning

Industrial zoning, much like commercial zoning, can be specific to the business type. Industrial use, noise concerns, and environmental factors help determine whether a business falls into one industrial zone or another. Industrial zoning can apply to many storage facilities and some manufacturing plants. Airports and some other businesses may have their own designation.

In part, building height and floor area ratio can have a lot to do with industrial zoning designations.

Commercial Zoning

Commercial real estate can apply to almost any type of real estate other than single-family lots and single-family homes. Commercial zoning examples include the following:

  • Certain warehouses
  • Hotels
  • Nightclubs
  • Shopping centers
  • Office buildings
  • Certain apartment complexes and/or vacant land that may, at some point, be used for such buildings

The type of commercial zoning allowed may be affected by the availability of parking. How close one business can be to another may also be regulated. In some geographical areas, adult entertainment establishments are limited or banned by zoning laws. In other areas, they may need to be a certain distance away from churches or existing schools.

 Home-Based Business and Residential Zoning

Home-based business zoning laws can depend on the following:

  • Noise issues
  • Delivery and parking concerns
  • Signage
  • Hours of operation
  • Whether there are business invitees or employees
  • Nature of the business

In residential areas, all in-home businesses are prohibited by some zoning ordinances. Others simply limit business hours and the type. Separate entrance facilities and parking facilities may also be required.

Residential Zoning

Zones included under the category of residential may include the following:

  • SH – Suburban homesteads
  • SFR – Single-family residences
  • Various other designations including condominiums, co-ops, trailer parks, duplexes, apartments, and homes

On a certain property, the number of structures allowed and/or whether or not mobile homes are allowed can be covered by residential zoning. Typically, the type of animals permitted in a residence is limited by zoning laws. Certain requirements pertain to cows, pigs, llamas, horses, sheep, chickens, etc., but cats, birds, and dogs are not usually regulated. Residential neighborhoods may not allow farm animals courtesy of being prohibited by zoning laws. Based on the size of a property, the number of animals may also be limited.

Additional Zoning Types

While the above-listed zoning types are relatively basic, there are other, more unique zoning types which are as follows:

  • Aesthetic zoning
  • Historic zoning
  • Combination zoning
  • Rural zoning

Additionally, within a certain zoning category, built-in exceptions may apply. These are referred to as “Permitted and Accessory”.

When You Need Legal Help with Zoning Restrictions in New Jersey, Who Can You Turn to?

At Carcich O’Shea, we listen to all your zoning and municipal concerns. Why? Because we sincerely believe that people deserve and need to be heard. Because our team is well-educated, competent, and, in fact, outstanding individuals, our services come highly rated.

Our office is in Hackensack, New Jersey, but feel free to give us a quick call at 201-988-1308. Let’s talk. You can also email us, if you prefer, at carcichoshea@gmail.com.

If you wish, use our convenient online form to open the lines of communication.

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