A.Â
Purposes. The purposes of this chapter are as follows:
(1)Â
To plan and guide the appropriate use or development of all land
in a manner which will promote the public health, safety, morals and
general welfare.
(2)Â
To secure safety from fire, flood, panic and other natural and man-made
disasters.
(3)Â
To provide adequate light, air and open space.
(4)Â
To ensure that land development does not conflict with the development
and general welfare of neighboring municipalities, the county and
the state as a whole.
(5)Â
To promote the establishment of appropriate population densities
and concentrations that will contribute to the well-being of persons,
maintenance of the character of neighborhoods, preservation of the
environment and quality of life.
(6)Â
To encourage the appropriate and efficient expenditure of public
funds by the coordination of public development with land use policies.
(7)Â
To provide sufficient space in appropriate locations for a variety
of agricultural, residential, recreational, commercial and industrial
uses and open space, both public and private, according to their respective
environmental requirements.
(8)Â
To encourage the location and design of transportation routes which
will promote the free flow of traffic while discouraging the location
of such facilities and routes which will result in congestion or blight.
(9)Â
To promote a desirable visual environment through creative development
techniques and good civic design and arrangements.
(10)Â
To promote the conservation of open space and valuable natural
resources and to prevent urban sprawl and degradation of the environment
through improper use of land.
(11)Â
To encourage planned developments which incorporate the best
features of design and relate the type, design and layout of residential,
commercial, industrial and recreational development to the particular
site.
(12)Â
To encourage senior citizen community housing construction.
(13)Â
To encourage coordination of various public and private procedures
and activities shaping land development, with a view of lessening
the cost of such development and to the more efficient use of land.
(14)Â
To regulate the location of buildings and establish standards
of development; to establish building lines and the location of buildings
designed for residential, commercial, industrial, office or other
uses within such lines; and to fix reasonable standards to which buildings
or structures shall conform.
(15)Â
To prohibit incompatible uses; to prohibit uses, buildings or
structures which are incompatible with the character of development
of the permitted uses within specified zoning districts and surrounding
areas.
(16)Â
To regulate alterations of existing buildings; to prevent such
additions to, and alterations or remodeling of, existing buildings
or structures as would not comply with the restrictions and limitations
imposed hereunder.
(17)Â
To conserve the value of land and buildings throughout the Township.
(18)Â
Within the community's resources, to meet the future housing
needs of the citizens of the Township of Cranford and the region and
to assure a full range of housing types to meet all income levels.
(19)Â
To reduce public expenditures for emergency operations, evacuations
and restorations.
(20)Â
To prevent damage to transportation and utility systems.
(21)Â
To minimize losses and damage to public and private property
due to inundation caused by floodwaters and storm runoff.
(22)Â
To restrict structures and land uses which increase flood heights,
velocities, erosion and siltation.
(23)Â
To prevent an increase in volume and rate of surface runoff
due to development.
(24)Â
To prevent further unwise developments in floodplains, thus
reducing future expenditures for protective measures.
(25)Â
To preserve, protect and enhance the natural environment of
the floodplain.
(26)Â
To maintain the useful life of water detention and retention
areas by preventing sedimentation.
(27)Â
To prevent dangers to life and property from flooding resulting
from excessive water runoff and clogging of drainage structures.
(28)Â
To preserve the recreational use of water bodies and enhance
water quality by preventing stagnation.
(29)Â
To prevent pollutants from entering streams, rivers and potable
water supplies.
(30)Â
To reduce public expenditures for repair of public facilities
resulting from soil erosion and sedimentation.
B.Â
Definitions.
(1)Â
For the purpose of this chapter, unless the context clearly indicates
a different meaning, the term "shall" indicates a mandatory requirement,
and the term "may" indicates a permissive action. The singular shall
also mean the plural, and "person" shall also mean other legal entities.
(2)Â
ABUTTING COUNTY ROAD
ACCESSORY USE OR STRUCTURE
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
ADVERSE DRAINAGE CONDITION
ALLEY
ANIMAL HOSPITAL
ANIMAL KENNEL
APARTMENT
APPLICANT
APPLICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT
APPROVED PLAN
APPROVING AUTHORITY
ART GALLERIES
ARTIST AND ARTISAN STUDIO OR WORKSHOP
ATTIC
ATTIC STORY
AUTO REPAIR GARAGE
AWNING
BAKERIES
BANNER
BASE FLOOD ELEVATION
BASEMENT
BEAUTY AND BARBER SHOPS
BED-AND-BREAKFAST ESTABLISHMENT
BLOCK
BOARDER
BOARDING HOME FOR SHELTERED CARE
BUILDING
(a)Â
(b)Â
BUILDING COVERAGE
CABARET or NIGHTCLUB
CANDY STORES
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
CAR DEALER, NEW
CAR DEALER, USED
CARPORT
CELLAR
CERTIFICATION
CHANGE OF USE
CHANNEL
CHILD-CARE CENTER
CIRCULATION
CLUSTER
COFFEE SHOPS
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE or COMMERCIAL LIGHT VEHICLE
COMMON OWNERSHIP
COMMUNITY RESIDENCE FOR THE DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED
COMMUNITY RESIDENCE FOR THE MENTALLY ILL
COMMUNITY SHELTER FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
COMPLETE APPLICATION
CONDITIONAL USE
CONVENIENCE STORES
COUNTY MASTER PLAN
COUNTY PLANNING BOARD
COURT
COURT, INNER
COURT, OUTER
CRITICAL AREA
CUL-DE-SAC
CULVERT
CUT
DAYS
DEAD-END STREET
DECK
DEDICATION FOR STREET PURPOSES
DELICATESSENS
DEVELOPER
DEVELOPMENT
DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED PERSON
DEVELOPMENT CLUSTER
DEVELOPMENT REGULATION
DIVERSION CHANNEL
DRAINAGE
DRIVE-IN RESTAURANT
DRIVE-IN USE
DWELLING, ATTACHED
DWELLING, DETACHED
DWELLING, MULTIFAMILY
DWELLING, NEIGHBORING
DWELLING, ONE-FAMILY
DWELLING, SEMIDETACHED
DWELLING, TWO-FAMILY
DWELLING UNIT
ELECTRONIC MESSAGE CENTER OR SIGN (EMC)
(a)Â
(b)Â
(c)Â
(d)Â
(e)Â
(f)Â
(g)Â
(h)Â
(i)Â
EMBANKMENT
ENCROACHMENT
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION
EROSION
ESSENTIAL SERVICES
EXCAVATION
EXECUTIVE OFFICES
EXISTING GRADE
EYEGLASS SALES AND REPAIR
(a)Â
(b)Â
(c)Â
FACADE
FAMILY
FAMILY DAY CARE HOME
FARM
FILL
FINAL APPROVAL
FLOOD DAMAGE POTENTIAL
FLOOD-FRINGE AREA
FLOOD HAZARD AREA
FLOOD HAZARD DESIGN ELEVATION
FLOOD OF RECORD
FLOODPLAIN
FLOOR AREA, GROSS
FLOOR AREA, NET
FLOOR AREA RATIO
FLY ASH
FURNITURE STORES
GARAGED
GARAGE, PRIVATE CUSTOMER AND EMPLOYEE
GARAGE, PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL
GARAGE, PUBLIC
GARAGE, REPAIR
GARDEN APARTMENT
GASOLINE SERVICE STATION
GOVERNING BODY
GOVERNMENT AGENCY
GRADE, FINISHED
GRADE PLANE
(a)Â
(b)Â
GRADING
GROCERY STORES
GROSS VEHICULAR WEIGHT
HABITABLE ROOM
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
HAZARDOUS WASTE
HEALTH CARE FACILITY
HEIGHT
HIGHLY FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS OR GASES
HISTORIC SITE
HOME OCCUPATION
HOTEL, MOTOR HOTEL or MOTEL
HOUSEHOLD
HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE SALES
IMPERVIOUS SURFACE
INSTITUTIONAL AND PUBLIC USES
INTERESTED PARTY
JUNK
JUNKYARD
LAND
LAND DISTURBANCE
LAWN AND GARDEN EQUIPMENT SALES AND REPAIR SHOPS
LIGHT VEHICLE
(a)Â
(b)Â
[1]Â
[2]Â
[3]Â
[4]Â
(c)Â
LIMITED ASSEMBLY
LOT
LOT AREA
LOT, CORNER
LOT COVERAGE
LOT DEPTH
LOT, INTERIOR
LOT LINE
LOT LINE, FRONT
LOT LINE, REAR
LOT LINE, SIDE
LOT, THROUGH
LOT WIDTH
LUMBER YARDS
MAINTENANCE GUARANTY
MAJOR SITE PLAN
MAJOR SUBDIVISION
MASTER PLAN
MAYOR
MENTALLY ILL PERSON
MICROCELL
MINOR SITE PLAN
MINOR SUBDIVISION
MULCHING
MUNICIPAL LAND USE LAW
NATURAL GROUND SURFACE
NONCONFORMING LOT
NONCONFORMING USE
NUISANCE ELEMENT
NURSERY SCHOOL
NURSING HOME
OBSTRUCTION
OFFICE DISTRIBUTION CENTERS
OFFICE SUPPLY AND SUPPORT STORES
OFFICIAL COUNTY MAP
OFFICIAL MAP
OFFICIAL SOIL MAP
OFFICIAL SOILS INTERPRETATION
OFF SITE
OFF TRACT
ON SITE
ON TRACT
OPEN SPACE
OPEN SPACE, COMMON
OPEN SPACE, GREEN
OPEN SPACE, PUBLIC
OWNER
PARABOLIC SATELLITE ANTENNA
PARKING AREA, PRIVATE
PARKING AREA, PUBLIC
PARKING FACILITY
PARTY IMMEDIATELY CONCERNED
PATIO
PENTHOUSE
PERCOLATION TEST
PERFORMANCE GUARANTY
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
PERMIT
PERMITTED USE
PERMITTEE
PERSON
PESTICIDE
PET STORES
PHYSICIAN
PIPELINE
PLANNED DEVELOPMENT
PLAT
PLAT, FINAL
PLAT, PRELIMINARY
PLAT, SKETCH
PORCH
PRELIMINARY APPROVAL
PRELIMINARY FLOOR PLANS AND ELEVATIONS
PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER
PROFESSIONAL OFFICE
PROHIBITED USE
PUBLIC AREAS
PUBLIC DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL
PUBLIC DRAINAGEWAY
QUORUM
RAINFALL, EXCESS
RECREATION, COMMERCIAL
RECREATION EQUIPMENT
(a)Â
(b)Â
(c)Â
(d)Â
(e)Â
(f)Â
RECREATION FACILITY
RECREATION, PERSONAL
RECREATION, PRIVATE
RECREATION, PUBLIC
REGULATORY BASE FLOOD
REGULATORY BASE FLOOD DISCHARGE
REGULATORY FLOODWAY
REPAIRS, MAJOR
REPAIRS, MINOR
RESEARCH LABORATORIES
RESIDENTIAL CLUSTER
RESIDENTIAL DENSITY
RESTAURANT
RESUBDIVISION
RETAIL SERVICE
RETAIL TRADE
RIGHTS OF DISCHARGE
ROOMER
ROOMING HOUSE
SEDIMENT
SEDIMENTATION
SEDIMENT BASIN
SHOPPING CENTER
SIGHT TRIANGLE
SIGN
SIGN, ABANDONED
SIGN ALTERATION
SIGN, ANIMATED
(a)Â
(b)Â
(c)Â
[1]Â
[2]Â
SIGN AREA
SIGN, AWNING
SIGN, BANNER
SIGN, BENCH
SIGN, BUILDING
SIGN, BUSINESS DIRECTORY
SIGN, CANOPY
SIGN, CHANGEABLE
(a)Â
(b)Â
SIGN COPY
SIGN, DIRECTIONAL
SIGN DISSOLVE
SIGN, EXTERNALLY ILLUMINATED
SIGN, FLASHING
SIGN, FREESTANDING
SIGN, GROUND
SIGN, ILLUMINATED
SIGN, INTERIOR
SIGN, INTERNALLY ILLUMINATED
SIGN, MARQUEE
SIGN, MULTIPLE-FACED
SIGN, NONCONFORMING
SIGN, OFF-PREMISES
SIGN, ON-PREMISES
SIGN, OUTDOOR ADVERTISING
SIGN, POLE
SIGN, POLITICAL
SIGN, PORTABLE
SIGN, PROJECTING
SIGN, PYLON
SIGN, REAL ESTATE
SIGN, REVOLVING
SIGN, ROOF
SIGN, SPECIAL EVENT
SIGN, TEMPORARY
SIGN, UNDER CANOPY or SIGN, UNDER MARQUEE
SIGN, WALL OR FASCIA
SIGN, WAYFINDING
SIGN, WINDOW
SINGLE OWNERSHIP
SITE
SITE PLAN
SLOPE
SOIL
SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRICT
SOIL ENGINEER
SOIL EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL PLAN
SPECIAL ACCESSORY USES
STORMWATER DETENTION
STORY
STORY, ABOVE GRADE
STORY, HALF
STREAM ENCROACHMENT PERMIT
STREET
STREET, LOCAL
STREET, MARGINAL ACCESS
STREET, MINOR
STREET, PRIMARY ARTERIAL
STREET, SECONDARY ARTERIAL
STRUCTURE
SUBDIVISION
SURFACE WATER
TEMPORARY PROTECTION
TERRACE
TOPSOIL
TOWNHOUSE
TOWNSHIP
TRACT
TRAILER
TRANSCRIPT
VARIANCE
VEGETATIVE PROTECTION
VEHICLE, MOTOR
VEHICLE, RECREATIONAL
VEHICULAR SALES AREA
VENDING MACHINE
VETERINARIAN OFFICE
WATER BODIES
WATER-CARRYING CAPACITY
WATERCOURSE
WEB-BASED RETAILERS
YARD
YARD, FRONT
YARD, REAR
YARD, SIDE
YARD, STREET SIDE
ZONING PERMIT
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings
indicated:[1]
Any existing or proposed county road shown on the adopted
County Master Plan or Official Map which adjoins or lies within a
lot or parcel of land submitted for subdivision or site plan approval.
A use or structure subordinate to and customarily incidental
to the principal use or structure on the same lot. When an accessory
building is attached in a substantial manner by a wall or roof to
a principal building or structure, it shall be considered a part thereof.
The Secretary of the Planning Board for the Planning Board
and the Zoning Officer for the Board of Adjustment.
The absence of drainage facilities, drainage easements or
drainage rights-of-way leading to, along or through a street, road,
drainage structure or property, either within or exterior to a proposed
subdivision or site plan, of such location, size, design, construction
or condition which would provide adequately for storm drainage or
which would prevent flooding, erosion, silting or other damaging effect
to a street, road, drainage structure or property or which would remove
the threat of such damage.
A minor way which is used primarily for vehicular service
access to the back or the side of properties otherwise abutting on
a street.
A place where animals or pets are given medical or surgical
treatment. Use as a kennel shall be limited to short-term boarding
and shall be incidental to such hospital use.
Any building, structure or premises in which animals are
kept, boarded, bred or trained for commercial gain.
See "dwelling, multifamily."
A developer submitting an application for development.
The application form and all accompanying documents required
by ordinance for approval of a subdivision plat, site plan, planned
development, conditional use, zoning variance or direction for the
issuance of a permit pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-34 or 40:55D-36.
A plan which has been granted final approval of the Planning
Board or Board of Adjustment of the Township of Cranford.
The Cranford Planning or Zoning Board, unless a different
agency is designated by statute.
Establishments primarily engaged in retailing original and
limited edition art works.
An establishment wherein persons skilled in the fine arts,
such as drawing, painting or sculpture, or persons with special skills
or trade in the manual arts, such as pottery, glass blowing and jewelry
making, work or carry out light manufacturing or repairs.
The space between the ceiling beams of the top story and
the roof rafters.
An attic having, within its space, possible floor area with
headroom of five feet or greater over 60% or more of the story directly
beneath.
Establishments primarily engaged in the repair and servicing
of automobiles. Industrial truck repair is not included in this definition.
A roof-like cover that projects from a wall of a building
for the purpose of shielding a doorway or window from the elements.
Establishments primarily engaged in retailing baked goods
that are made on or off the premises.
A flexible substrate on which copy or graphics may be displayed.
The highest elevation, expressed in feet above sea level,
of the level of floodwaters occurring in the regulatory base flood.
That portion of a building which is partly or completely
below grade.
Establishments that are primarily engaged in furnishing beauty
and hairdressing services, including manicure, pedicure, and facial
salons.
A building that contains a minimum of two units utilized
for lodging and a morning meal for transient guests in exchange for
compensation.
The areas bounded by one or more streets or a municipal boundary
of sufficient size to accommodate a lot or lots of the minimum size
required in this chapter.
See "roomer."
An establishment licensed by the New Jersey State Department
of Health to operate as a boarding home for sheltered care.
A combination of materials to form a construction adapted
to permanent, temporary or continuous occupancy and having a roof.
BUILDING, ACCESSORYA subordinate building on the same lot with the principal or main building occupied by or devoted exclusively to an accessory use.
BUILDING, PRINCIPALA building in which is conducted the principal use of the site on which it is situated.
That area of a lot or site which is occupied or proposed
to be occupied by a building. (See also "lot coverage" and "open space.")
Any room, place, space or premises operated as a commercial
establishment in which eating and/or drinking may take place and in
which there is also provided entertainment. Such entertainment may
include music by a live musician or musicians or any mechanical, electronic
or other means, such as records, laser discs, audio or video tapes
or other audio or audiovisual means; this does include the operation
of a motion-picture theater. Also included as entertainment are any
act, play, burlesque show, revue, pantomime, scene, dance act or song-and-dance
act participated in by one or more employees, guests, customers or
any other person or persons. For the purpose of this definition, background
piped-in music shall not be deemed as a form of entertainment.
Establishments primarily engaged in retailing candy and other
confections, nuts, and popcorn not for immediate consumption and not
made on the premises.
A governmental construction project or acquisition of equipment
or real property.
An establishment primarily engaged in the factory-authorized
retail sale of new cars; permitted accessory uses are the maintenance
of a service and repair shop, the retail sale of used cars, car parts
and accessories and the sale of used, new and unused light vehicles
other than cars.
An establishment solely engaged in the sale of used cars.
A roofed structure providing space for the parking of motor
vehicles and enclosed on not more than three sides.
A space with less than 1/2 of its floor-to-ceiling height
above the average finished grade of the adjoining ground or with a
floor-to-ceiling height of less than 6Â 1/2 feet.
A signed, written statement by the appropriate officer that
specific constructions, inspections, tests or notices, where required,
have been performed and that such comply with this chapter.
A change from any use listed in § 255-36 of this chapter to any other use, or from any use not listed to any other use.
A watercourse with a definite bed and banks which confine
and conduct continuously or intermittently flowing water.
An establishment providing for the care, supervision and
protection of children and for which, upon completion, a license is
required from the Department of Children and Families pursuant to
Public Law 1983, Chapter 492 (N.J.S.A. 30:5B-1 et seq.). The floor
area occupied by child-care centers shall not be counted against the
maximum floor area ratio of permitted uses in nonresidential zones.[2]
Systems, structures and physical improvements for the movement
of people, goods, water, air, sewage or power by such means as streets,
highways, railways, waterways, towers, airways, pipes and conduits,
and the handling of people and goods by such means as terminals, stations,
warehouses and other storage buildings or transshipment points.
See "residential cluster."
Establishments primarily engaged in serving nonalcoholic
beverages, such as coffee, juices, or sodas, for consumption on or
near the premises. These establishments may carry and sell a combination
of snacks, nonalcoholic beverages, and other related products (e.g.,
coffee beans, mugs, and coffee makers) but generally promote and sell
a unique snack or nonalcoholic beverage.
Any such currently registered and operational motor vehicle
containing advertising, signs, lettering, names or addresses, other
than trademarks and labels of manufacturer and dealer, but not including
any omnibus, school bus or school vehicle as defined by Title 39 of
the New Jersey Revised Statutes.
Ownership of two or more contiguous parcels of real property
by one person or by two or more persons owning such property jointly.
Any community residential facility housing up to 16 developmentally
disabled persons which provides food, shelter, and personal guidance
for developmentally disabled persons who require assistance, temporarily
or permanently, in order to live independently in the community. Such
residences shall not be considered health care facilities within the
meaning of the Health Care Facilities Planning Act, P.L. 1971, c.
136 (N.J.S.A. 26:2H-1 et seq.), and shall include, but not be limited
to, group homes, halfway houses, supervised apartment living arrangements,
and hostels.[3]
Any community residential facility which provides food, shelter
and personal guidance, under such supervision as required, to not
more than 15 mentally ill persons who require assistance, temporarily
or permanently, in order to live independently in the community. These
residences shall be approved for a purchase of service contract or
an affiliation agreement pursuant to procedures established by the
Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services in the Department
of Human Services. These residences shall not house persons who have
been assigned to a state psychiatric hospital after having been found
not guilty of a criminal offense by reason of insanity or unfit to
be tried on a criminal charge. These residences shall not be considered
health care facilities within the meaning of the Health Care Facilities
Planning Act, P.L. 1971, c. 136 (N.J.S.A. 26:2H-1 et seq.) and shall
include, but not be limited to, group homes, halfway houses, supervised
apartment living arrangements, family care homes, and hostels.[4]
Any shelter approved for a purchase of service contract and
certified pursuant to standards and procedures established by regulation
of the Department of Human Services pursuant to P.L. 1979, c. 337
(N.J.S.A. 30:14-1 through 30:14-14), providing food, shelter, medical
care, legal assistance, personal guidance and other services to not
more than 15 persons who have been victims of domestic violence, including
any children of such victims, who temporarily require shelter and
assistance in order to protect their physical or psychological welfare.
An application form completed as specified by this chapter
and the rules and regulations of the Boards and all accompanying documents
required for approval of the application for development.
A use permitted in a particular zoning district only upon
showing that such use in a specified location will comply with the
conditions and standards for the location or operation of such use
as contained in this chapter and upon the issuance of an authorization
therefor by the Planning Board.
Establishments that sell a range of everyday items such as
groceries, prepared food for off-site consumption, toiletries, alcoholic
and soft drinks, tobacco products, and newspapers and may offer money
order and wire transfer services.
A composite of the plan elements for the physical development
of Union County, with the accompanying maps, plats, charts and descriptive
and explanatory matter adopted by the County Planning Board pursuant
to N.J.S.A. 40:27-2 and 40:27-4.
The Union County Planning Board.
Any open, unoccupied area which is bounded by three or more
building walls.
An open area, unobstructed from the ground to the sky, which
is bounded on more than three sides by the exterior walls of one or
more buildings.
An open space, unobstructed from the ground to the sky, which
is bounded on not more than three sides by the exterior walls of one
or more buildings.
A sediment-producing, highly erodible or severely eroded
area.
The turnaround at the end of a dead-end street.
A structure with a clear span of 20 feet or less under a
driveway, road, railroad or pedestrian walk, not incorporated in a
closed system.
Portion of land surface or area from which earth has been
removed or will be removed by excavation; the depth below original
ground surface or excavated surface.
Calendar days.
A street or portion of a street which is accessible by a
single means of ingress or egress.
A raised horizontal structure without roof or walls and more
than one foot in height at any point; also, an area having the characteristics
of a patio but more than one foot in height at any point.
A dedication of land for construction, reconstruction, widening,
repairing, maintaining or improving a street, public or private, and
for the construction, reconstruction or alteration of facilities related
to the safety, convenience or carrying capacity of said street, including
but not limited to curbing, pedestrian walkways, drainage facilities,
traffic control devices and utilities in or along road rights-of-way.
Establishments primarily engaged in providing food services
(except snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars) where patrons generally
order or select items and pay before eating. Food and drink may be
consumed on premises, taken out, or delivered to the customer's location.
Some establishments in this industry may provide these food services
in combination with selling alcoholic beverages.
The legal or beneficial owner or owners of a lot or of any
land included in a proposed development, including the holder of an
option or contract to purchase, or other person having an enforceable
proprietary interest in such land.
The division of a parcel of land into two or more parcels;
the construction, reconstruction, conversion, structural alteration,
relocation or enlargement of any building or other structure; any
mining, excavation, landfill or land disturbance; and any use or extension
of use of land for which permission may be required pursuant to this
chapter.[5]
A person who is developmentally disabled as defined in Section
2 of P.L. 1977, c. 448 (N.J.S.A. 30:11B-2).
See "residential cluster."
Zoning, subdivision, site plan, official map or other municipal
regulation of the use and development of land, or amendment thereto,
adopted and filed pursuant to the Municipal Land Use Law.
A channel constructed across or at the bottom of a slope.
The removal of surface water or groundwater from land by
drains, grading or other means, and includes control of runoff to
minimize erosion and sedimentation during and after construction or
development and the means necessary for water supply preservation
or prevention or alleviation of flooding.
A building or portion thereof where food and/or beverages
are sold in a form ready for consumption and where all or a significant
portion of the consumption of the same takes place or is designed
to take place outside the confines of the building in a motor vehicle
on the site.
A use where all or part of the business may take place outside
the confines of the principal structure with the customer remaining
in a motor vehicle.
A one-family dwelling attached to two or more one-family
dwellings by common vertical walls.
A dwelling which is not attached to any other dwelling.
A building containing more than two dwelling units.
Any dwelling located on any of the following lots:
A building containing one dwelling unit.
A one-family dwelling attached to one other one-family dwelling
by a common vertical wall.
A building containing two dwelling units.
One or more rooms designed, occupied or intended for occupancy
as separate living quarters with cooking, sleeping and sanitary facilities
provided within the dwelling unit for the exclusive use of a single
family maintaining a household.
An electrically activated changeable sign whose variable
message and/or graphic presentation capability can be electronically
programmed by computer from a remote location. Also known as an "EMC."
Electronic message centers (EMCs) typically use light-emitting diodes
(LEDs) as a lighting source. (See also the following terms principally
associated with electronic message centers: display time, dissolve,
dynamic frame effect, fade, frame, frame effect, scroll, transition,
and travel).
DISPLAY TIMEThe amount of time a message and/or graphic is displayed on an electronic message sign.
DISSOLVEA mode of message transition on an electronic message sign accomplished by varying the light intensity or pattern, in which the first message gradually appears to dissipate and lose legibility with the gradual appearance and legibility of the second message.
DYNAMIC FRAME EFFECTAn electronic message sign frame effect in which the illusion of motion and/or animation is used.
FADEA mode of message transition on an electronic message sign accomplished by varying the light intensity, where the first message gradually reduces intensity to the point of not being legible and the subsequent message gradually increases intensity to the point of legibility.
FRAMEA complete, static display screen on an electronic message sign.
FRAME EFFECTA visual effect on an electronic message sign applied to a single frame. See also "dynamic frame effect."
SCROLLA mode of message transition on an electronic message sign in which the message appears to move vertically across the display surface.
TRANSITIONA visual effect used on an electronic message sign to change from one message to another.
TRAVELA mode of message transition on an electronic message sign in which the message appears to move horizontally across the display surface.
A man-made or natural deposit of soil, rock or other material.
(See "fill.")
Any obstruction within a delineated floodway.
A municipal advisory body created pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:56A-1
et seq.
The detachment, movement or wearing away of land surface,
soil or rock by water, wind, ice or gravity.
The erection, construction, alteration or maintenance of
underground, surface or overhead gas, electrical, steam or water transmission
systems, including poles, wires, mains, drains, sewers, pipes, conduits,
cables, fire alarm boxes, traffic signals, light stanchions, telephone
lines, hydrants and other similar equipment and accessories reasonably
necessary for the furnishing of adequate service to the zone or neighborhood
where located by public utilities or municipal or other governmental
agencies. "Essential services" shall include first aid and emergency
aid squad buildings.
Removal or recovery, by any means whatsoever, of minerals,
mineral substances or organic substances, other than vegetation, from
the water, land surface or beneath the land surface, whether exposed
or submerged. Normal agricultural activities shall not be considered
to be "excavation."
Offices used primarily for corporate headquarters and executive
management and administrative purposes, including conference facilities
and meeting rooms. Executive offices shall be limited to no more than
four.
The vertical location of the ground surface prior to excavating
or filling.
Establishments primarily engaged in one or more of the following:
Retailing and fitting prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses;
Retailing prescription eyeglasses in combination with the grinding
of lenses to order on the premises; and
Selling nonprescription eyeglasses, which may or may not include
an accessory medical professional office associated with an optometrist
and/or ophthalmologist.
That portion of the façade of a building which fronts
on a street.
[Added 7-7-2022 by Ord. No. 2022-15]
Any number of persons maintaining a nonprofit household.
A "family" shall include foster children placed with a family by the
State Department of Children and Families or a duly incorporated child-care
agency but shall not include roomers or members of a fraternity or
sorority. (See also "household.")
[Amended 10-24-2017 by Ord. No. 2017-12]
A private residence which is registered as a family day care
home pursuant to the Family Day Care Provider Registration Act, P.L.
1987, c. 27 (N.J.S.A. 30:5B-16 et seq.), and is further defined as
a private residence in which child-care services are provided for
a fee to not fewer than three and no more than five children at one
time for no less than 15 hours per week, except that the Department
of Children and Families shall not exclude a family day-care home
with fewer than three children from voluntary registration.
[Amended 10-24-2017 by Ord. No. 2017-12]
An area of land which is actively devoted to agricultural
or horticultural use, which occupies no fewer than five acres, exclusive
of the land upon which the farmhouse is located and such additional
land as may actually be used in connection with the farmhouse as provided
in N.J.S.A. 54:4-23.3, 54:4-23.4 and 54:4-23.11, except that livestock,
poultry, fowl or other animals shall not be maintained on the premises
for commercial gain unless incidental to the major agricultural activity.
Sand, gravel, earth or other materials of any composition
whatsoever placed or deposited by any person or persons. See also
"embankment."
The official action of the Planning Board or Board of Adjustment
taken on a development plan which had been given preliminary approval
and after all conditions, engineering plans and other requirements
have been completed or fulfilled and the required improvements have
been installed or guaranties properly posted for their completion
or approval conditioned upon the posting of such guaranties.
The susceptibility of a specific land use at a particular
location to damage by flooding and the potential of the specific land
use to increase off-site flooding or flood-related damages.
That portion of the flood hazard area outside of the floodway
based on the total area inundated during the regulatory base flood,
plus 25% of the regulatory base flood discharge.
The floodplain, consisting of the floodway and the flood-fringe
area.
The highest elevation, expressed in feet above sea level,
of the level of floodwaters which delineates the flood-fringe area.
Flood of August 2-3, 1973, for which accurate local records
are available.
The same as "flood hazard area," and shall include Zones
A-1 through A-30 on the Flood Insurance Rate Map.
The sum of the gross horizontal areas of the several floors
of a building measured from the exterior face of the exterior walls,
but not including areas devoted exclusively to off-street parking
and loading space for motor vehicles or any space where the floor-to-ceiling
height is less than seven feet.
Gross floor area minus 15%.
The ratio of the gross floor area of all buildings on a lot
to the lot area.
Particles of gasborne matter, not including process material,
arising from the combustion of solid fuel such as coal or wood.
Establishments primarily engaged in retailing new furniture,
such as household furniture and outdoor furniture, office furniture
and/or furniture sold in combination with major appliances, home electronics,
home furnishings, or floor coverings.
To be stored or parked entirely within the perimeter walls
of a garage, with the doors closed except for purposes of ingress
and egress.
A structure that is accessory to a retail, commercial or
manufacturing establishment, building or use for the parking and storage
of vehicles operated by the customers, visitors and employees of such
buildings and that is not available to the general public.
A structure that is accessory to a residential building and
that is used for the parking and storage of vehicles owned and operated
by the residents thereof.
A structure or portion thereof other than a private customer
and employee garage or private residential garage used for the parking
and storage of vehicles and available to the general public.
Any building, premises or land in which or upon which a business,
service or industry involving the maintenance, servicing, repair or
painting of vehicles, trailers or recreation vehicles is conducted
or rendered and which does not involve the sale of gasoline or other
fuels. The sale of new or used vehicles is not a permitted use.
See "dwelling, multifamily."
A place where gasoline or other motor fuels are sold to the
public and delivered directly into motor vehicles and which may also
provide for the maintenance and service of motor vehicles or the sale
and installation of motor vehicle equipment and accessories.
The Township Committee of the Township of Cranford.
Any department, commission, independent agency or instrumentality
of the United States and of the State of New Jersey and of any county,
city, township, village, authority, district or other governmental
unit.[6]
The final grade or elevation of the ground surface conforming
to the proposed design.
Areas located outside the flood hazard area: A reference plane
representing the average of the finished ground level adjoining the
building at all exterior walls. Finished grade shall be pre-construction
grade on level sites and not in excess of two feet above the pre-construction
grade on the upland side(s) of a structure on sloping sites.
Areas or portions of the building area of a lot located within
the flood hazard area: The reference plane shall be the more restrictive
of the base flood elevation or advisory base flood elevation of the
flood hazard area plus four feet.
[Amended 11-23-2021 by Ord. No. 2021-17]
Any stripping, culling, filling, stockpiling or any combination
thereof, including the land in its cut or filled condition.
Stores commonly known as "supermarkets," "food stores," "grocery
stores," and "delicatessens" primarily engaged in the retail sale
of all sorts of canned food, dry goods, fresh fruits and vegetables,
and fresh meats, fish, and poultry, except that convenience stores
are not included in this definition.
The gross vehicle weight rating established by the manufacturer.
Any room in a dwelling unit other than a kitchen or bathroom.
Includes but is not limited to inorganic mineral acids of
sulfur, fluorine, chlorine, nitrogen, chromium, phosphorous, selenium
and arsenic and their common salts; lead, nickel and mercury and their
inorganic salts or metallo-organic derivatives; and coal tar acids,
such as phenols and cresols and their salts.
Those wastes that can cause or help to cause illness or death
or that, in the absence of proper management, represent a significant
threat to either human health or the environment based upon the criteria
of ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity and toxicity as established
by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) pursuant
to the provisions of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of
1976.
A facility which provides a full range of medical preventative,
diagnostic, treatment and surgical services, excluding drug rehabilitation
services, by a group of physicians to persons who come to the facility
to receive medical services and depart from the facility on the same
day, which may also include ancillary lab testing, pharmaceutical,
food service and other support services.
The vertical distance from the grade plane to the highest
point of the roof surface of a building.
Liquids or gases having a flash point of 100° F. (37°
C.) or less or autoignition temperatures of 1,040° F. (560°
C.) or less.
Any building, structure, area or property that has been designated
to be significant in the history, architecture, archaeology or culture
of this state, its communities or the nation pursuant to the New Jersey
Municipal Land Use Law.
Any activity carried out for gain by a resident conducted
as an accessory use in his dwelling unit. Newspaper delivery by minors
shall not be considered a home occupation.
A building designed for occupancy as a temporary residence
of one or more persons who are lodged with or without meals.
A family living together in a single dwelling unit with common
access to, and common use of, all living and eating areas and all
areas and facilities for the preparation and storage of food within
the dwelling unit.
Establishments primarily engaged in selling and servicing
household appliances, such as refrigerators, stoves, washing machines,
clothes dryers, and room air conditioners.
Any material which generally reduces or prevents absorption
of stormwater into previously undeveloped land. Retention and detention
basins and dry wells allowing water to percolate directly into the
ground shall not be considered as impervious surfaces.
Nonprofit public or quasi-public institutions and uses such
as houses of worship, public and private schools and/or land used
for such purposes, but not municipally owned libraries, buildings,
structures or land.
In a criminal or quasi-criminal proceeding, any citizen of
the State of New Jersey; in the case of a civil proceeding in any
court or an administrative proceeding before a municipal agency, any
person, whether residing within or without the municipality, whose
right to use, acquire or enjoy property is or may be affected by any
action taken under this chapter or under any other law of this state
or of the United States or has been denied, violated or infringed
by an action or a failure to act under this chapter.
Any scrap, waste, reclaimable material and debris, whether
or not stored or used in conjunction with dismantling, processing,
salvage, storage, baling, disposal or other use or disposition. "Junk"
may include, for purposes of illustration, vehicles, tires, vehicle
parts, equipment, paper, rags, metal, glass, plaster, household appliances,
wood, lumber, brush and building materials.
Any area, lot, parcel, building or structure used for the
storage, sale, processing, abandonment or storage of junk.
Ground, soil or earth, including improvements and fixtures
on, above or below the surface thereof.
Any activity involving clearing, cutting, excavating, filling,
grading and any other activity which causes land to be exposed to
the danger of erosion.
Establishments primarily engaged in either repairing and/or
servicing home and garden equipment such as lawn mowers, handheld
power tools, edgers, snow and leaf blowers, and trimmers.
Pedal-operated vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds and other similar
vehicles.
The following light motor vehicle classes, as recognized by
the United States Environmental Protection Agency:
Cars, including station wagons.
Pickup trucks, but only those with a gross vehicular weight
which does not exceed 8,600 pounds. Pickup trucks with a gross vehicular
weight exceeding 8,600 pounds may be classified as "light vehicles,"
provided that the length, width and height are the same as those of
a comparable vehicle with a gross vehicular weight of 8,600 pounds
or less, as produced by the same manufacturer during the same model
year.
Vans, but only those with a gross vehicular weight which does
not exceed 8,600 pounds. Vans with a gross vehicular weight exceeding
8,600 pounds may be classified as "light vehicles," provided that
the length, width and height are the same as those of a comparable
vehicle with a gross vehicular weight of 8,600 pounds or less, as
produced by the same manufacturer during the same model year.
Special purpose vehicles, but only those with a gross vehicular
weight which does not exceed 8,600 pounds. Special purpose vehicles
with a gross vehicular weight exceeding 8,600 pounds may be classified
as "light vehicles," provided that the length, width and height are
the same as those of a comparable vehicle with a gross vehicular weight
of 8,600 pounds or less, as produced by the same manufacturer during
the same model year.
This term does not include any omnibus, school bus or school
vehicle as defined by Title 39 of the New Jersey Revised Statutes.
The assembly or partial assembly of products and goods to be stored and distributed as part of the office and warehouse/distribution uses on site. "Limited assembly" shall not include manufacturing operations which result in the conversion or modification of the chemical or physical properties of the component materials or result in chemical by-products of the operation. All limited assembly uses shall be subject to the performance standards set forth in § 255-27 of this chapter.
A designated parcel, tract or area of land established by
a plat or otherwise as permitted by law and to be used, developed
or built upon as a unit.
The computed area contained within the lot lines, but not
including any street rights-of-way.
A parcel of land either at the junction of and abutting on
two or more intersecting streets or abutting a single street at the
point where the road tangents deflect by more than 45°. On corner
lots, there shall only be one rear lot line.
That portion of one lot or more than one lot which is improved
or is proposed to be improved with buildings and structures, including
but not limited to driveways, parking lots, pedestrian walkways, signs
and other man-made improvements on the ground surface which are more
impervious than the natural surface. (See also "building coverage"
and "open space.")
The distance between the midpoint of the front lot line and
the midpoint of the rear lot line.
A parcel of land other than a corner lot.
A line of record bounding a lot.
The lot line separating a lot from a street right-of-way.
The lot line opposite and most distant from the front lot
line or the point at which the two side lot lines meet in the case
of a triangular lot. If a lot has two or more front lot lines, the
line opposite the street used as the property address shall be considered
the rear lot line.
Any lot line other than a front or rear lot line.
An interior lot which extends from one street to another.
The shortest distance between the side lot lines.
Establishments (except those known as home centers, paint
and wallpaper stores, and hardware stores) primarily engaged in retailing
specialized lines of new building materials, such as lumber, fencing,
glass, doors, plumbing fixtures and supplies, electrical supplies,
prefabricated buildings and kits, and kitchen and bath cabinets and
countertops to be installed.
Any security, other than cash, which may be accepted by the
Township for the maintenance of any improvements required by this
chapter.
A development plan for one or more lots which meets one or
more of the following criteria:
A subdivision not classified as a minor subdivision.
A composite of one or more written or graphic proposals for
the development of the Township prepared and adopted pursuant to the
Municipal Land Use Law.
The chief executive of the Township of Cranford.
A person who is afflicted with a mental illness as defined
in N.J.S.A. 30:11B-2, but shall not include a person who has been
committed after having been found not guilty of a criminal offense
by reason of insanity or having been found unfit to be tried on a
criminal charge.[7]
A small patch antenna which is generally surface mounted
to a building facade.
Any site plan not a major site plan.
A subdivision of land for the creation of no more than three
lots, provided that such subdivision does not involve a planned development,
a new street, or an extension of any off-tract improvement, the cost
of which is to be prorated pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-42.
The application of suitable materials on the soil surface
to conserve moisture, hold soil in place and aid in establishing plant
cover.
N.J.S.A. 40:55D-1 through 40:55D-92, as amended.
The ground surface in its original state before any grading,
excavation or filling.
A lot, the area, dimension or location of which was lawful
prior to the adoption, revision or amendment of this chapter but which
fails to conform to the requirements of the zoning district in which
it is located by reason of such adoption, revision or amendment.
A use or activity which was lawful prior to the adoption,
revision or amendment of this chapter but which fails to conform to
the requirements of the zoning district in which it is located by
reason of such adoption, revision or amendment.
Any smoke, solid particles or fly ash, odors, liquid wastes,
solid wastes, radiation, noise, vibration, glare or heat.
A facility designed to provide daytime care or instruction
for five or more children from two to five years of age, inclusive,
and operated on a regular basis.
A building providing shelter and/or supplemental health care
for the elderly or infirm and meeting the standards of and licensed
by the State of New Jersey to operate as a nursing home.
Includes but is not limited to any structure, fill, excavation,
channel modification, rock, gravel, refuse or matter in, along, across
or projecting into any channel, watercourse or flood hazard area which
may impede, retard or change the direction of the flow of water, either
in itself or by catching or collecting debris carried by such water,
or that is placed where the flow of water might carry the same downstream
to pose a danger to life or property.
Includes the warehousing and distribution of goods, provided
that up to 10% of the gross floor area of any office distribution
center may be used for executive or administrative office uses ancillary
to the warehouse and distribution uses. Warehousing in office distribution
centers shall not include the storage of fuels, hazardous materials,
hazardous waste, highly flammable liquids or gases or petrochemical
products. All warehousing and storage of goods shall be conducted
entirely within enclosed structures and buildings. "Office distribution
centers" shall not include mini warehouses or similar uses or truck
depots or similar uses.
Establishments primarily engaged in supplying, reproducing,
shipping, and selling of miscellaneous supplies in support of office
uses.
The map, with changes and additions thereto, adopted and
established from time to time by resolution of the Board of Chosen
Freeholders of the county pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:27-5.
A map adopted in accordance with the Municipal Land Use Law
or any prior act authorizing such adoption, which map shall be deemed
conclusive with respect to the location and width of the streets,
public parks and playgrounds and drainage rights-of-way shown thereon.
The individual map sheets that are part of the Union County
Soil Survey of the National Cooperative Soil Survey of the Natural
Resources Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture,
published by the County Soil Conservation District and adopted by
resolution of the Union County Planning Board.[8]
The interpretations of the soils described in the Somerset-Union
Soil Survey of the National Cooperative Soil Survey of the Natural
Resources Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture,
published by the County Soil Conservation District and adopted by
resolution of the Union County Planning Board.[9]
Located outside the lot lines of the lot in question but
within the property (of which the lot is a part) which is the subject
of a development application or contiguous portion of a street or
right-of-way.
Not located on the property which is the subject of a development
application or on a contiguous portion of a street or right-of-way.
Located on the lot in question.
Located on the property which is the subject of a development
application or on a contiguous portion of a street or right-of-way.
Any parcel or area of land or water essentially unimproved
and set aside, dedicated, designated or reserved for public or private
use or enjoyment or for the use and enjoyment of owners and occupants
of land adjoining or neighboring such open space, provided that such
area may be improved with only those buildings, structures, streets
and off-street parking and other improvements that are designed to
be incidental to the natural openness of the land. (See also "building
coverage" and "lot coverage.")
An open space area within or related to a site designated
as a development, and designed and intended for the use or enjoyment
of residents and owners of the development. "Common open space" may
contain such complementary structures and improvements as are necessary
and appropriate for the use or enjoyment of residents and owners of
the development.
An area not occupied by structures or impervious surfaces.
An open space area conveyed or otherwise dedicated to the
Township or a Township agency, Board of Education, state or county
agency or other public body for recreational and conservational uses.
An individual, firm, association, syndicate, copartnership
or corporation having sufficient proprietary interest to seek or authorize
development of land under this chapter.
Any apparatus which is designed for the purpose of receiving
television, radio, microwave, satellite or similar signals and which
is characterized by a round dish-type structure.
Any open area, including parking spaces, driveways and access
aisles or other public ways, used for the temporary storage of automobiles
and other permitted vehicles for the private use of the owners or
occupants of the lot on which the area is located.
Any open area, including parking spaces, driveways and access
aisles, other than a street or other public way, used for the temporary
storage of automobiles and other permitted vehicles and available
to the public, with or without compensation, or as an accommodation
for clients, customers and employees.
Any private customer and employee garage, private residential
garage and public garage.
For purposes of notice, any applicant for development, the
owners of the subject property and all owners of property and government
agencies entitled to notice under this chapter.
A horizontal area located at existing grade and used for
other than vehicular purposes, which is without roof or walls and
surfaced with wood, macadam, masonry, stone, brick, block or other
such material.
A roofed enclosure up to 12 feet in height on top of a building
and occupying not more than 20% of the main roof area.
A test designed to determine the ability to absorb water.
Any security which may be accepted by the Township, provided
that 10% of the total performance guaranty shall be in cash.
The maximum emission level that a nuisance element is permitted
under this chapter.
A certificate issued to perform work under this chapter.
Any use which shall be allowed, subject to the provisions
of this chapter.
Any person to whom a permit is issued in accordance with
this chapter.
A corporation, company, association, society, firm, partnership
or joint-stock company, as well as an individual, the state and all
political subdivisions of the state or any agency or instrumentality
thereof.
Any substance or mixture of substances labeled, designed,
intended for or capable of use in preventing, destroying, repelling,
sterilizing or mitigating any insects, rodents, nematodes, predatory
animals, fungi, weeds and other forms of plant or animal life or viruses,
except viruses on or in persons or animals. The term "pesticide" shall
also include any substance or mixture of substances labeled, designed
or intended for use as a defoliant, desiccant or plant regulator.
Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of pets,
including dogs, cats, fish, and exotic animals.
A person licensed to practice medicine or surgery, or a chiropractic
physician, doctor of podiatry or a person similarly licensed by the
Board of Medical Examiners of the State of New Jersey.
A pipeline which is not a public utility, that distributes
to end users and is unregulated by the State of New Jersey Board of
Public Utilities and which is designed to transport a variety of materials,
including hazardous substances which, if a discharge occurred, result
in environmental degradation to the environment, including the land,
water and air.
[Added 1-26-2016 by Ord.
No. 2016-01]
Any development which is a planned unit development, planned
unit residential development, residential cluster, planned commercial
development or planned industrial development.
A map or maps of a subdivision or site plan.
The final map of all or a portion of a subdivision or site
plan which is presented to the Planning Board or Board of Adjustment
for final approval in accordance with this chapter.
The preliminary map indicating the proposed layout of the
subdivision or site plan which is submitted to the Planning Board
or Board of Adjustment for consideration and preliminary approval.
The sketch map of a subdivision or site plan of sufficient
accuracy to be used for the purpose of discussion and classification.
A deck, patio or terrace with a permanent roof.
The conferral of certain rights pursuant to this chapter
prior to final approval after specific elements of the development
plan have been agreed upon by the Planning Board or Board of Adjustment
and the applicant.
Architectural drawings prepared during early and introductory
stages of the design of a project illustrating, in a schematic form,
its scope, scale and relationship to its site and immediate environs.
An engineer duly licensed by the State of New Jersey.
The office of an accountant, architect, attorney, dentist,
engineer or physician.
A use which is not permitted in a zone district.
Existing or proposed public parks, playgrounds, trails, paths
and other recreational areas; other public open spaces; scenic and
historic sites; and schools and other public buildings and structures.
A master plan, capital improvement program or other proposal
for land development adopted by the appropriate public body, or any
amendment thereto.
The land reserved or dedicated for the installation of stormwater
sewers or drainage ditches or required along a natural stream or watercourse
for preserving the channel and providing for the flow of water to
safeguard the public against flood damage, sedimentation and erosion.
The majority of the full authorized membership of the Board.
The portion of rainfall which becomes direct surface runoff.
Facilities operated as a business and open to the public
for a fee and where no alcoholic beverages are served and no live
entertainment is conducted.
Includes the following items if currently registered and
in good repair:
RECREATION TRAILERA trailer used to carry a boat, bicycle, motorcycle or some other similar item of recreation equipment or vehicle.
HOUSE OR TRAVEL TRAILERA portable structure mounted on or part of a trailer for use as a temporary dwelling for travel, recreation or vacation and having a maximum body length of 35 feet and a maximum body width of eight feet when factory equipped for the road.
PICKUP CAMPERA portable structure designed to be mounted on a pickup or other truck for travel, recreation or vacation uses, but not including pickup caps which do not extend more than 12 inches above the standard cab of the pickup. Pickup trucks equipped with such caps shall be considered light vehicles.
MOTOR HOMEA motor vehicle designed for use as a temporary dwelling for travel, recreation or vacation, but not including standard vans which are light vehicles and usable only for sleeping purposes. Such vans shall be considered light vehicles.
CAMP TRAILERA folding or rigid portable structure mounted on or part of a trailer and designed for travel, recreation or vacation uses.
BOATAny kind of boat, float or raft.
A place where sports, leisure-time activities and customary
and usual recreational activities, such as set forth in Major Group
No. 79 of the Standard Industrial Classification Manual, are carried
out.
An accessory use located on the same lot as the principal
permitted use and designed to be used primarily by the occupants of
the principal use and their guests.
Facilities operated by a nonprofit organization and open
only to bona fide members and guests of such nonprofit organization.
Facilities operated by the Township, county or other governmental
agency.
The flood having a one-percent chance of being equaled or
exceeded in any given year.
The rate of flow produced by the regulatory base flood measured
in cubic feet per second.
The channel and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved
in order to discharge the regulatory base flood without cumulatively
increasing the water surface elevation more than 0.2 foot.
Include, but are not limited to, engine changeover or overhaul,
front end overhaul, transmission replacement or overhaul, rear end
replacement or overhaul, a job that would require jockeying of vehicles
with wheels off the ground, sheet metal repair or replacement (bodywork),
glazing, and all such work which is similar to those enumerated above.
Include, but are not limited to, flats, replacing hoses or
belts, radiator service, lights, bulbs, windshield wipers, washing
and polishing, tune-ups, the dispensing of motor fuels into vehicles,
and all such work which is similar to those enumerated above.
Limited to laboratories engaged in scientific investigation,
testing or the production of factual information for industrial, commercial
or institutional clients. No tangible or physical product for general
marketing shall be directly produced therein, and no operation shall
be conducted which would generate hazardous waste or by-products.
An area to be developed as a single entity according to a
plan containing residential housing units which have a common or public
open space area as an appurtenance.
The number of dwelling units per gross acre of residential
land area, including streets, easements and open space portions of
a development.
An establishment in which food or drink is prepared, served
and consumed within the principal building or taken out for off-premises
consumption, but excluding drive-through service.
The further division or relocation of lot lines of any lot
or lots within a subdivision previously made and approved or recorded
according to law or the alteration of any streets or the establishment
of any new streets within any subdivision previously made and approved
or recorded according to law, but does not include conveyances so
as to combine lots by deed or other instrument.
Establishments primarily engaged in providing services involving
the care of a person or his or her personal goods or apparel, including
but not limited to laundry, linen supply, diaper service, beauty and
barber shops, shoe repair and nail salons. A retail service establishment
may have accessory retail sales but shall not be primarily engaged
in retail sales. Funeral home services shall not be considered retail
services.[10]
Establishments engaged in the selling or rental of merchandise
(usually to the general public for personal use or household consumption,
although they may also serve business and institutional clients) and
in rendering services incidental to the sale of such goods. Retail
sales establishments include galleries for the display and sale of
art but do not include studios, schools, commercial schools or vehicle
or boat sales, rental, leasing or service.
A legally recordable instrument granting to the developer
the right to discharge collected waters upon lands exterior to the
development.
A person other than a member of a family occupying a part
of any dwelling unit who, for a consideration, is furnished sleeping
accommodations in such dwelling unit and may be furnished meals as
part of this consideration.
Any dwelling or part thereof in which space is let by the
owner or operator to more than three persons who are not members of
the family. Same as "boardinghouse."
Any solid material that is in suspension and is being or
has been moved by water, ice, wind, and gravity or other means.
The transport and depositing of sediment.
A barrier or dam built across a waterway or at other suitable
locations to retain sediment.
Two or more retail commercial establishments located in one
building or structure designated as a planned commercial development
as defined herein.
A triangular-shaped portion of land established at intersections
in accordance with the requirements of this chapter in which nothing
shall be erected, placed, planted or allowed to grow in such a manner
as to limit or obstruct sight distance.
A name, identification, description, display or illustration
which is affixed to or represented directly or indirectly upon a building,
structure or piece of land, directing attention to a product, business,
service or individual. However, "sign" shall not include a display
of official court or public notices or any official traffic control
device and shall not include the flag, emblem or insignia of a nation,
state, county, municipality or religious group. "Sign" shall not include
a sign located completely within an enclosed building except if it
is visible and directed to be seen from outside the building. Each
display surface of the sign shall be considered to be a single sign,
except that where two such surfaces of a sign are physically attached,
parallel and separated by less than 12 inches, the two surfaces shall
be considered a single sign.
A sign that no longer identifies or advertises an ongoing
business, product, location, service, idea, or activity conducted
on the premises on which the sign is located. Whether a sign has been
abandoned or not shall be determined by the intent of the owner of
the sign and shall be governed by applicable state case law and statutory
law on abandoned structures.
A change in the size or shape of an existing sign. Copy or
color change of an existing sign is not an alteration. Changing or
replacing a sign face or panel is not an alteration.
A sign employing actual motion, the illusion of motion, or
light and/or color changes achieved through mechanical, electrical,
or electronic means. Animated signs, which are differentiated from
changeable signs as defined and regulated by this chapter, include
the following types:
Environmentally activated. Animated signs or devices motivated
by wind, thermal changes, or other natural environmental input. Includes
spinners, pinwheels, pennant strings, and/or other devices or displays
that respond to naturally occurring external motivation.
Mechanically activated. Animated signs characterized by repetitive
motion and/or rotation activated by a mechanical system powered by
electric motors or other mechanically induced means.
Electrically activated. Animated signs producing the illusion
of movement by means of electronic, electrical, or electromechanical
input and/or illumination capable of simulating movement through employment
of the characteristics of one or both of the classifications noted
below:
Flashing. Animated signs or animated portions of signs whose
illumination is characterized by a repetitive cycle in which the period
of illumination is either the same as or less than the period of nonillumination.
For the purposes of this chapter, "flashing" will not be defined as
occurring if the cyclical period between on-off phases of illumination
exceeds four seconds.
Patterned illusionary movement. Animated signs or animated portions
of signs whose illumination is characterized by simulated movement
through alternate or sequential activation of various illuminated
elements for the purpose of producing repetitive light patterns designed
to appear in some form of constant motion.
The gross area within a single continuous perimeter enclosing
the extreme limits of a sign. Such perimeter shall not include any
structural elements lying outside the limits of such sign and not
forming an integral part of the display unless the structural elements
are purposely illuminated to form a part of the display. In the case
of an open sign, made up of individual letters, figures or designs,
the sign area shall be deemed to include the smallest square, circle,
rectangle or triangle that will encompass the extreme limits of the
individual letters, figures or designs and any other material or color
forming an integral part of the background of the display or used
to differentiate the sign from the backdrop or structure against which
it is placed.
A sign displayed on or attached flat against the surface
or surfaces of an awning.
A sign utilizing a banner as its display surface.
A sign applied or affixed to the seat or back of a bench.
A sign that is applied or affixed to a building.
A sign attached to the facade of a building listing the tenants
or occupants thereof and their professions or business activities.
[Added 7-7-2022 by Ord. No. 2022-15]
A sign affixed to the visible surface(s) of an attached or
freestanding canopy. May be internally or externally illuminated.
Similar to a marquee sign.
A sign with the capability of content change by means of
manual or remote input. Includes the following types:
Manually activated. Changeable sign whose message copy or content
can be changed manually on a display surface.
Electrically activated. Changeable sign whose message copy or
content can be changed by means of remote electrically energized on-off
switching combinations of alphabetic or pictographic components arranged
on a display surface. Illumination may be integral to the components,
such as characterized by lamps or other light-emitting devices, or
it may be from an external light source designed to reflect off the
changeable component display. See also "electronic message center."
The letters, numerals, figures, symbols, logos and graphic
elements comprising the content or message of a sign, exclusive of
numerals identifying a street address only.
Any sign that is designed and erected for the purpose of
providing direction and/or orientation for pedestrian or vehicular
traffic.
See "electronic message center or sign."
[Amended 10-24-2017 by Ord. No. 2017-12]
See "sign, illuminated."
See "sign, animated, electrically activated."
Any sign supported by structures or supports that are placed
on, or anchored in, the ground and that are independent from any building
or other structure.
[Added 10-24-2017 by Ord. No. 2017-12]
See "sign, freestanding."
A sign characterized by the use of artificial light, either
projecting through its surface(s) (internally or trans-illuminated)
or reflecting off its surface(s) (externally illuminated).
Any sign placed within a building, but not including window
signs as defined by this chapter. Interior signs, with the exception
of window signs as defined, are not regulated by this chapter.
See "sign, illuminated."
See "sign, canopy."
A sign containing three or more faces.
A sign that was legally installed by permit in conformance
with all municipal sign regulations and ordinances in effect at the
time of its installation, but which may no longer comply with subsequently
enacted laws and ordinances having jurisdiction relative to the sign.
See "sign, outdoor advertising." See also "sign, wayfinding."
A sign erected, maintained or used in the outdoor environment
for the purpose of the display of messages appurtenant to the use
of, products sold on, or the sale or lease of the property on which
it is displayed.
A permanent sign erected, maintained or used in the outdoor
environment for the purpose of the display of commercial or noncommercial
messages not appurtenant to the use of, products sold on, or the sale
or lease of the property on which it is displayed. May also be referenced
as an "off-premises sign," "billboard" or "commercial outdoor advertising
sign."
See "sign, freestanding."
A temporary sign intended to advance a political statement,
cause, or candidate for office.
Any cord-connected sign not permanently attached to the ground
and can be removed without the use of tools.
A sign other than a wall sign that is attached to or projects
more than 18 inches from a building face or wall or from a structure
whose primary purpose is other than the support of a sign.
See "sign, freestanding."
A temporary sign advertising the sale, lease, or rental of
the property or premises upon which it is located.
A sign that has the capability to revolve 360° about
an axis. See also "sign, animated, mechanically activated."
A sign mounted on the main roof portion of a building or
on the uppermost edge of a parapet wall of a building and which is
wholly or partially supported by such building. Signs mounted on mansard
facades, pent eaves, and architectural projections such as canopies
or marquees shall not be considered to be roof signs.
A temporary sign pertaining to any civic, patriotic, or special
event of general public interest.
A sign intended to display either commercial or noncommercial
messages of a transitory or temporary nature. Portable signs or any
signs not permanently embedded in the ground, or not permanently affixed
to a building or sign structure that is permanently embedded in the
ground, are considered temporary signs.
A sign attached to the underside of a canopy or marquee.
A sign that is in any manner affixed to any exterior wall
of a building or structure and that projects not more than 18 inches
from the building or structure wall. Also includes signs affixed to
architectural projections that project from a building provided the
copy area of such sign remains on a parallel plane to the face of
the building facade or to the face or faces of the architectural projection
to which it is affixed.
A sign, frequently off premises, specifically designed to
provide directional or destination information. See also "sign, off-premises."
A sign affixed to the surface of a window with its message
intended to be visible to the exterior environment.
Ownership by one or more persons in any form of ownership
of a lot not adjacent to a lot or lots partially or entirely in the
same ownership.
Any plot or parcel of land or combination of contiguous lots
or parcels of land.
A development plan of one or more lots on which is shown
the existing and proposed conditions of the lot, including but not
necessarily limited to topography, vegetation, drainage, floodplains,
marshes and waterways; the locale of all existing and proposed buildings,
drives, parking spaces, walkways, means of ingress and egress, drainage
facilities, utility services, landscaping, structures and signs, lighting
and screening devices; and any other information that may be reasonably
required in order that an informed determination may be made by the
Boards pursuant to this chapter.
The degree of deviation of a surface from the horizontal,
usually expressed in percent or degree.
All unconsolidated mineral and organic material of whatever
origin that overlies bedrock and which can be readily excavated.
The governmental subdivision of this state which encompasses
this municipality, organized in accordance with the provisions of
Chapter 24, Title 4, of the New Jersey statutes (N.J.S.A. 4:24-1 et
seq.).
A professional engineer who is qualified, by education and
experience, to practice applied soil mechanics and foundation engineering.
A plan which indicates necessary land treatment measures,
including a schedule for installation, which will effectively minimize
soil erosion and sedimentation. Such measures shall be at least equivalent
to the standards and specifications as adopted by the Somerset-Union
Soil Conservation District.
Those uses, as defined in § 255-38D of this chapter, which are permitted as ancillary to principal permitted uses in the C-3 Zone.
Any storm drainage technique which retards or detains runoff,
such as a detention or retention basin, parking lot storage, rooftop
storage, porous pavement, dry wells or any combination thereof.
That portion of a building included between the surface of
any floor and the surface of the floor next above it, or, if there
is no floor above it, then the space between the floor and the ceiling
next above it.
Any story having its finished floor surface entirely above
grade, except that a basement shall be considered to be a story above
grade where the basement or a portion thereof extends above the adjacent
ground area to a height of 3.5 feet or greater as measured from any
point of the finished first floor to the lowest finished grade of
the ground adjacent to the building.[11]
A space under a sloping roof which has the line of intersection
of the roof decking and wall face not more than three feet above the
top floor level, in which space the possible floor area with a headroom
of five feet or less occupies at least 40% of the total area of the
story directly beneath. The area shall not be habitable and shall
only be accessible from a pull-down-style staircase.
A permit issued by the New Jersey Department of Environmental
Protection under the provisions of N.J.S.A. 58:16A-50 et seq.[12]
Any street, avenue, boulevard, road, parkway, viaduct, drive
or other way which is an existing state, county or municipal roadway;
or which is shown upon a plat heretofore approved pursuant to law;
or which is approved by official action as provided by this chapter;
or which is shown on a plat duly filed and recorded in the office
of the county recording officer prior to the appointment of a planning
board and the grant to such board of the power to review plats; and
includes the land between the street lines, whether improved or unimproved,
and may comprise pavement, shoulders, gutters, curbs, sidewalks, parking
areas and other areas within the street lines.
A street which is used primarily for access to abutting properties.
A street which is parallel and adjacent to an arterial street
and which provides access to abutting properties and protection from
through traffic.
See "street, local."
A street so designated in the duly adopted Cranford Master
Plan.
A street so designated in the duly adopted Cranford Master
Plan.
A combination of materials to form a construction for occupancy,
use or ornamentation, whether installed on, above or below the surface
of land or water.[13]
The division of a lot, tract or parcel of land into two or
more lots, tracts, parcels or other divisions of land for sale or
development. The following shall not be considered subdivisions within
the meaning of this chapter if no new streets are created: divisions
of land found by the Planning Board to be for agricultural purposes
where all resulting parcels are five acres or larger in size; divisions
of property by testamentary or intestate provisions; divisions of
property upon court order, including but not limited to judgments
of foreclosure; conveyances so as to combine existing lots by deed
or other recorded instrument; and the conveyance of one or more adjoining
lots, tracts or parcels of land owned by the same person or persons,
all of which are found and certified by the Development Coordinator
to conform to the requirements of this chapter and are shown and designated
as separate lots, tracts or parcels on the Tax Map or Atlas of the
Township. The term "subdivision" shall also include the term "resubdivision."
Water on land surface.
Stabilizations of erosive or sediment-producing areas.
A raised horizontal structure or area having the characteristics
of a deck or patio but not more than one foot in height.
The surface soil and soil material to a depth of six inches
tillage, its equivalent in cultivated soil or the original or present
A horizon plus B horizon (if in the top six inches), as defined by
the National Cooperative Soil Survey of the United States Department
of Agriculture, before its removal or displacement for any purposes
whatsoever. "Topsoil" shall be capable of supporting vegetables indigenous
to the area.
An attached or semidetached dwelling with two direct means
of access from the outside and having separate cooking, sleeping and
sanitary facilities and separate facilities for sewerage, heating,
water, electric and gas.
The Township of Cranford.
Property which is the subject of a development application.
A vehicular chassis or structure designed to be hauled by
another vehicle and to carry any structure, object, material, person,
animal or thing.
A typed or printed verbatim record of the proceedings or
reproduction thereof.
Permission to depart from the literal requirements of this
chapter.[14]
Stabilization of erosive or sediment-producing areas by covering
the soil with permanent or short-term seeding, mulching or sodding.
A self-propelled device which is licensed as a motor vehicle
by the State of New Jersey.
Vehicular-type portable structures which can be towed, hauled
or driven, primarily designed as temporary living accommodations for
recreational, camping and travel use, including travel trailers, truck
campers, camping trailers and self-powered motor homes.
An open area, other than a right-of-way or public parking
area, used for display, sale or rental of new or used vehicles in
operable condition and where no repair work is done.
A coin-operated device located outside of a principal building
which dispenses various items or products, such as, but not limited
to, food, drink, ice, reading materials or toiletries.
Establishments primarily engaged in the practice of veterinary
medicine, dentistry, or surgery and which are staffed by a veterinarian
licensed by the New Jersey Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.[15]
Any natural or artificial collection of water, whether permanent
or temporary.
Ability of a channel or floodway to transport flow as determined
by its shape, cross-sectional area, bed slope and coefficient of hydraulic
friction.
Any natural or artificial watercourse, stream, river, creek,
ditch, channel, canal, conduit, culvert, drain, waterway, gully, ravine
or wash in which water flows in a definite direction or course, either
continuously or intermittently, and which has a definite channel,
bed and banks, and shall include any area adjacent thereto subject
to inundation by reason of overflow or floodwater.
Establishments engaged in retailing all types of merchandise
using the Internet.
An open space which lies between the principal or accessory
building or buildings and the nearest lot line, unoccupied and unobstructed
from the ground upward except as permitted in this chapter.
A space extending the full width of the lot between any building
and the front lot line, measured perpendicular to the building at
its closest point to the front lot line. Said front yard shall be
unoccupied and unobstructed from the ground upward except as may be
permitted elsewhere in this chapter.
A space extending across the full width of the lot between
the principal building and the rear lot line, measured perpendicular
to the building at its closest point to the rear lot line. Said rear
yard shall be unoccupied and unobstructed from the ground upward except
as may be permitted elsewhere in this chapter.
A space extending from the front yard to the rear yard between
the principal building and the side lot line, measured perpendicular
to the side lot line at its closest point to the principal building.
Said side yard shall be unoccupied and unobstructed from the ground
upward except as may be permitted elsewhere in this chapter.
On a corner lot, the front yard which the face of a principal
building does not front upon.
A document signed by the Zoning Officer which is required
by this chapter as a condition precedent to the commencement of a
use or the erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration, conversion
or installation of a structure or building and which acknowledges
that such use, structure or building complies with the provisions
of this chapter or variance therefrom.
[1]
Editor's Note: The following definitions which appeared in this subsection were repealed at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II): "appeal"; "area of shallow flooding"; "area of special flood hazard"; "base flood"; "elevated building"; "Flood Insurance Rate Map"; "Flood Insurance Study"; "flood map"; "flood or flooding"; "floodway"; "lowest floor"; "manufactured home"; "manufactured home park or manufactured home subdivision"; "new construction"; "start of construction"; and "substantial improvement." See now Ch. 225, Flood Damage Prevention.