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1. What types of business can I operate on my property?

The Schedule of District Use Regulations defines the principal, accessory and conditional uses which are permitted in a specific zone.  

2. Where can I find the Township Master Plan?

Master Plan Documents can be accessed through this link and the link on the Planning and Zoning website page.

3. Can I subdivide my property?

The Schedule of Area, Bulk and Yard Requirements provides the information regarding minimum lot areas, coverage and yard setback requirements.

4. As a property owner with public sidewalks, what are my responsibilities for removing snow?

Sidewalks should be cleared of snow, slush, ice within 12 hours of the snow stopping. Sidewalks at intersections should have a straight through path to the roadway and entry to the next sidewalk.

5. I am planning to have a garage sale. Do I need a permit? Where can I post signs?

No permit is required when having a garage sale. Signs may only be posted at the property that is conducting the sales. No signs are permitted on trees, rocks, fences, or at any intersection pointing to the sales or address.

6. I am planning to put in a new driveway. Are there permits I need to obtain?

Yes. When putting in a new driveway you must obtain a Soil Removal Permit and a Zoning Permit.

7. Is there a limit to how many trees I can cut down on my property? Is a permit necessary?

The number of trees allowed to be cut down each year is 5 per lot, unless otherwise granted by the Board of Adjustment, Planning Board or Environmental Commission. The 5 trees should be 12 inches or greater at ground level. Trees that are dead, dying, diseased or less than 12 inches are not included in the 5 tree cap. There is no permit required for trimming of trees or shrubs.

8. Is there an ordinance requiring all residents to maintain their lawns? If so, what is required?

All premises and exterior property shall be maintained free from weeds or plant growth in excess of 10 inches. All noxious weeds shall be prohibited. Weeds shall be defined as all grasses, annual plants and vegetation, other than trees or shrubs provided; however, this term shall not include cultivated flowers and gardens.

9. Where can I find which Zone is a property in?

Click on the link to access the Zoning Map, https://www.mahwahtwp.org/DocumentCenter/View/127/Zoning-Map-PDF

When referencing the Zoning Map you will notice color coded districts within the Township starting with a letter followed by numbers, example - yellow R40. This Zone is Residential with a minimum lot area of 40,000 Sq. Ft.

10. How can I find the Zoning Schedule for Yard Requirements for a property?

Please click on the link - https://www.mahwahtwp.org/DocumentCenter/View/124/Schedule-of-Area-Bulk-and-Yard-Requirements-PDF

Here you will find the Zoning Schedule of Area, Bulk and Yard Requirements which includes Minimum Area Requirements (lot area, width, depth), Maximum Bulk Requirements (lot coverages and building height), Minimum Yard Requirements (setbacks from property lines).

11. How can I find the District Use Regulation for each Zone?

To access this information click on the following link:  https://www.mahwahtwp.org/DocumentCenter/View/125/Schedule-of-District-Use-Regulations-PDF

Here you will find a list of each District Zone within the Township with permitted principal, permitted accessory and conditional uses.

12. Where can I find information about fences?

To find regulations for fencing click on the following link: https://ecode360.com/37342282?highlight=fence,fences,front,front%20yard,fronting,yard,yards&searchId=41453540756661960#37342282

All new and replacement of existing fences need a Zoning Application to be submitted. If there is an existing fence needing minor repairs a permit is not needed. All corner lots have two front yards, a front yard is any part of the property that abuts a street. A maximum height of 4 feet is permitted in all front yards, if the desired height exceeds 4 feet then a variance would be needed by submitting a  Board of Adjustment Application. A maximum height of 6 feet is permitted in side and rear yards.

13. What is the difference between an Accessory Structure and Shed?

You may find information on Accessory Structures by clicking on the following link: https://ecode360.com/37342298#37342298

Accessory Structures are not attached to the primary residence and larger than 10' x 12' (120 sq. ft.), some examples include pergolas, pavilions, detached garages.

A detached structure up to 10' x 12' (120 sq. ft.) is considered a shed.