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1. What current development activity is going on in Plainsboro?

For information on development activity review the linked document. Contact the Planning and Zoning office with questions at (609) 799-0909 ext 1502.

Development Activity

2. Can I operate a business from my home?

Home based businesses in a residential dwelling are permitted subject to satisfying applicable zoning standards. These standards are intended to ensure such businesses do not negatively impact the residential character of neighborhoods. For additional information on planning and zoning matters call 609-799-0909, ext. 1502. The procedure for obtaining Township approval for home based businesses is described in linked page.
Home-Based Business

3. What rules apply to placing a storage shed on my residential property?

Residential storage sheds may be located in the side or rear yard areas of a residential lot, shall be located a minimum of 10 feet from side and rear property lines, shall not exceed a height of 15 feet or an area of 750 square feet. Like fences, sheds shall not be located within an easement area of a lot. In addition to the shed bulk restrictions in §101-13 of the Township Code, certain zone districts (R-85, R-90, and R-95) allow sheds to be as close as 5 feet to a side and rear property line. Some residential developments have more restrictive shed standards, including some that even prohibit sheds altogether. Sheds of 100 square feet or less in area, do not require a building permit, only zoning approval by Department of Planning and Zoning.

4. What is the zoning district classification and applicable regulations for my property?

Under Municipal Maps, click on “Zoning Map,” then, on the zoning map, click on the location of the property in question; you will be provided with the zoning regulations for that area. See also the Township Code Book for further information; Chapter 101 identifies the various zoning districts and regulations in the township. For additional information on planning and zoning matters call 609-799-0909, ext. 1502. Visit the Municipal Maps page.

5. How do I obtain Township zoning approval when a variance, subdivision, and/or site plan approval for non-residential development is involved?

Zoning approval for a variance from the zoning regulations, subdivision of a property, or for building improvements to a non-residential property require the submission of development applications and the approval of the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment. Development applications and related fees are available online or at the department during normal business hours. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Township Department of Planning and Zoning at 609-799-0909, ext. 1502 in advance of completing applications to verify application requirements and submission procedures. Forms page.

6. When and how do I obtain zoning approval from the Township?

Homeowners wishing to undertake building improvements, such as a home addition, deck, pool, shed, or fence need to obtain zoning approval, and in most cases, building permit approval from the Township. Minor improvements such as fences or small sheds (100 square feet or less in area) do not require building permits, only zoning approval by the Department of Planning and Zoning.

All building improvements requiring a permit are subject to the review and approval of the Department of Code Enforcement. All relevant building permit and zoning review information must be submitted to Code Enforcement. The zoning review portion of the submission shall include at a minimum, a completed Zoning Compliance Form, a marked-up survey showing the location and size of the improvement, the setback dimensions to the property lines, elevation views, and the materials and colors of the proposed improvement. If a permit is not required, all the above zoning review documents shall be submitted directly to the Department of Planning and Zoning for review and approval.

For additional information on planning and zoning matters call 609-799-0909, ext. 1502. Download the Zoning Compliance form (PDF). 

7. What rules apply to placing a fence on my residential property?

Fences are allowed in the front, side, and rear yards of most residential properties. In the front yard (corner lots have 2 front yards), fences are limited to 3 feet in height; in the side and rear yards they are limited to 6 feet in height. The finished side of a fence must be positioned to face neighboring properties and the street, as applicable. Fences may be placed on the property line between 2 lots; no setback is required. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to locate the property lines and install the fence either along or just inside the property lines on their property.

Fences can not be located within an easement area on a property (easements are often shown on property survey maps). In addition to the fence standards in Chapter 62 of the Township Code, certain residential developments have specific fence standards that were approved as part of the residential development involved. In such cases, additional restrictions may apply. All fences, except for 8 feet tall safety fences, do not require a building permit, only zoning approval by Department of Planning and Zoning.