30 Res Detached Dist.tif
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The overarching objective of the R District is to preserve and strengthen quality of life in Morristown's residential neighborhoods. A flexible zoning mechanism has been developed to balance two often competing goals: (1) to preserve existing neighborhood identity and development patterns while (2) permitting homeowners to improve and modernize their homes. The flexible mechanism balances these goals by significantly reducing the number of preexisting nonconforming parcels and, in most cases, streamlines permitting for minor modifications to existing dwellings while also establishing design standards to guard against common concerns.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Morristown's single-family housing stock is diverse and varies in age, size, and facade materials. Typically, many commonalities exist between neighborhoods developed during the same period in history. Single-family neighborhoods range from compact neighborhoods characteristic of the 1930s to larger-lot subdivisions with split-level homes built in the 1980s. Each neighborhood has a discrete character defined by lot size, proximity of buildings to one another, and the nature of the streets along which those buildings are situated.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Estate (E). The Estate Building Overlay permits estate developments, which were created to accommodate the unique development patterns of certain historic neighborhoods in Morristown. These developments exhibit a combination of lot size, building character, and frontage type. As such, there is an estate building type, estate lot type, and estate frontage type, each regulating their respective aspect. The Estate Building Type Overlay is characterized by large homes on relatively small parcels. This is a pattern that defines certain picturesque neighborhoods, but would be wholly inappropriate in other locales. This overlay accommodates and strengthens existing fabric while allowing non-overlay parcels to be appropriately regulated.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
C: Conditional
Use
R
E Overlay
Single-family
P
P
Park or playground
P
NP
Home occupation
C
C
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
Building Type
R
E Overlay
Detached (all widths)
P
P
Estate
NP
P
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Residential lots in Morristown vary in width, length and land area. This code incorporates a more flexible approach to residential zoning. Building and setback standards are scaled to the size of existing parcels, which allows for uniform regulations applicable to all single-family residential zoning districts across the Town. Flexibility in yard and coverage standards helps to ensure that the majority of existing properties in the Town, even those with irregular dimensions, can be improved by their owners without excessive process. The width of the lot shall dictate the standards applicable to a given parcel (e.g. a forty-foot-wide parcel is considered "small" and thus all standards for a small lot shall be applicable). In cases of corner lots, the frontage width shall be considered the width of the lot line parallel to the front door facing a street. If frontage width on a corner lot cannot be determined based on unique site circumstance, the Zoning Officer shall make a determination.
30 Narrow Lot Std.tif
30 Small Lot Std.tif
30 Medium Lot Std.tif
30 Large Lot Std.tif
30 Wide Lot Std.tif
30 XXL Lot Std.tif
30 Estate Lot Std.tif
Narrow
Small
Medium
Large
Wide
XXL
Estate1 Lot
Width: Parcels up to 39.9 feet
Width: 40 feet to 49.9 feet
Width: 50 feet to 59.9 feet
Width: 60 feet to 74.9 feet
Width: 75 feet to 124.9 feet
Minimum width: 125 feet or more
Minimum width: 50 feet
Minimum depth: 80 feet
Minimum depth: 80 feet
Minimum depth: 80 feet
Minimum depth: 80 feet
Minimum depth: 80 feet
Minimum depth: 80 feet
Minimum depth: 100 feet
Minimum area: 2,400 square feet
Minimum area: 3,200 square feet
Minimum area: 4,000 square feet
Minimum area: 4,800 square feet
Minimum area: 6,000 square feet
Minimum area: 12,500 square feet
Minimum area: 5,000 square feet
Notes:
Flexible lot regulations above shall apply only to existing parcels. Subdivision of land shall be regulated in Subsection 30-205.9 and Part 7.
1
Estate specifications only applicable to lots within the E Overlay Zone existing at the time of ordinance adoption.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Building placement.
30 Bldg Placement.tif
Building Placement
Narrow
Small
Medium
Large
Wide
XXL
Estate
a.
Setbacks
(1)
Build-to-line
Prevailing setback +/- 25%
(2)
Side yard (one) (minimum) (feet)
2
3
5
5
5
20
10
(3)
Side yard (both) (minimum) (feet)
10
13
18
18
18
45
20
(4)
Rear yard (minimum) (feet)
20
20
20
20
20
20
30
b.
Coverage
(1)
Building coverage (maximum)
35%
30%
25%
20%
20%
20%
20%1
(2)
Improved coverage (maximum)
45%
40%
35%
30%
30%
30%
30%
Note:
1
Maximum building coverage upon existing parcels that are less than 5,000 square feet may be increased to 25% building coverage.
b. 
Building standards.
30 Bldg Stds.tif
Building Standards
Narrow
Small
Medium
Large
Wide
XXL
Estate
a.
Building height (maximum)
3 stories/35 feet
b.
Accessory structure height (maximum)
15 feet
c.
Finished 1st floor
18 inches to 24 inches (visible from right-of-way)
d.
Building width (maximum) (feet)
27
27
35
60
60
80
100
e.
Building depth (maximum) (feet)
50
50
50
50
50
50
30 to 175
f.
Build-to-line occupancy
f
/
d
Minimum
80%
80%
60%
45%
40%
35%
50%
Maximum
100%
100%
85%
75%
55%
50%
100%
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Additional building and lot regulations.
1. 
Primary entrance shall face along front street.
2. 
Street facing garage doors prohibited, with the exception of corner lots. Garages on corner lots may face the street along the side of larger frontage.
3. 
Additional regulations relating to side yard setbacks:
(a) 
If side yards are not of equal size, buildings shall be oriented on the parcel so that the wider side yard setback is created along the property line shared with the nearest adjacent building facade.
(b) 
If a driveway is present on the subject parcel or along an adjacent parcel property line, a building shall be located to create a minimum distance of 15 feet between facades.
(c) 
If no driveway is present, buildings shall be configured to create a minimum of 10 feet between facades.
(d) 
If any new construction creates a condition in which less than 10 feet exist between adjacent building facades, a vegetative buffer shall be required and the new facade shall be designed so that window openings do not align with openings of the existing adjacent facade.
4. 
Permitted yard encroachments for accessory structures.
(a) 
Deck/patio: may encroach into the rear yard a maximum of 10 feet; no encroachment is permitted into side yard setbacks.
(b) 
A ground-mounted air-conditioning compressor may encroach up to 10 feet into the rear yard, so long as a vegetative buffer or fence is provided and would not be located less than 10 feet from the existing adjacent facade.
(c) 
Exterior ramps installed for wheelchair access may encroach into all yard setbacks.
5. 
Projections.
(a) 
Balconies may project up to six feet into the required rear yard setback.
(b) 
Bay windows may project up to four feet into any required side yard setback which is wider than 10 feet and into any front or rear setback.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
The minimum width and area for new lots created through subdivision shall match the prevailing neighborhood lot width and area as defined below.
b. 
"Prevailing neighborhood lot width and area" shall mean the average of all existing parcels within the same district and within 200 feet of the subject property. Lots divided by a municipal border shall use the calculation of the entire property on both sides of the municipal border.
c. 
Minimum lot width may be reduced to 90% of the prevailing neighborhood pattern if the new parcel is accessed by a driveway shared with the adjacent property.
d. 
All other bulk restrictions shall be governed by flexible lot standards within this section.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Home occupation: See Subsection 30-216.4.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Standard
Code Reference
Parking standards
§ 30-218
Prohibited uses
§ 30-215
Frontage standards
Article 3C
Signage standards
Article 4I
Accessory structures
Article 3E
Site design standards
Article 4A
30 MF1 Single and Two Fam Res.tif
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The MF-1 District is characterized by a development pattern common in several of Morristown's existing one- and two-family neighborhoods. The MF-1 District boundaries largely follow those of the former RT-1 District, which was created in 2007 (per 2003 Master Plan). The RT-1 Zone was created by splitting the former RT District (one- to four-family) into two districts: RT-1, which was limited to two-family dwellings, and RT-2, which was limited to dwellings with a maximum of four units. The stated intent of the split was to prevent further congestion in these areas, to better protect the adjoining single-family neighborhoods, and to allow for redevelopment at an appropriate scale. Mixed-tenure neighborhoods and the dwellings within provide a variety of options for households of varying sizes, income levels, and preferences. This MF-1 Zone adds a courtyard building type which creates a new housing product that will respond to the demand for smaller, more affordable stand-alone dwellings that create realistic ownership opportunities at a wider range of income-levels.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
MF-1 Districts are dispersed throughout the Town. These neighborhoods were constructed primarily before 1920, and contain a mix of one- and two-family dwellings, occupied in some cases by property owners and in other cases by tenants. Detached residential structures dominate the character of MF-1 Districts. Generally speaking, MF-1 properties are developed with reduced yard setbacks and larger structures relative to lot size as compared to most single-family neighborhoods in Town. MF-1 Districts are walkable, and connect to essential services and neighborhood amenities.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
None.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
C: Conditional
Use
MF-1
Single-family
P
Two-family
P
Home occupation
C
Human habitation of second principal structure
C
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
Building Type
MF-1
Building Standards
Detached
P
§ 30-302
Semiattached
P
§ 30-304
Courtyard
P1
§ 30-305
Note:
1
Not permitted on historic suburban frontages.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MF1 Lot Std.tif
Lot Standards
a.
Lot width (minimum)
Standard shall use semiattached building type per Part 3. See Subsection 30-206.10 for additional subdivision regulations.
b.
Lot depth (minimum)
c.
Lot size (minimum)
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MF1 Bldg Placement.tif
MF-1 Standards
a.
Setbacks
(1)
Build-to-line
Prevailing setback +/-25%
(2)
Side yard (one) (minimum)
Standard shall use semiattached building type per Part 3.
(3)
Side yard (both) (minimum)
(4)
Rear yard (minimum)
b.
Coverage
(1)
Building coverage (maximum)
Standard shall use semiattached building type per Part 3.
(2)
Improved coverage (maximum)
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MF1 Bldg Form.tif
Building Height
Minimum
Maximum
a.
Principal structure
3 stories/35 feet
b.
Accessory structure(s)
15 feet
c.
Finished ground floor (visible from right-of-way)
18 inches
24 inches
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Home occupation: See Subsection 30-216.4.
b. 
Human habitation of second principal structure: See Subsection 30-216.8.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
The minimum width and area for new lots created through subdivision shall match the prevailing neighborhood lot width and area as defined below.
b. 
Prevailing neighborhood lot width and area shall mean the average of all existing parcels within the same district and within 200 feet of the subject property. Lots divided by a municipal border shall use the calculation of the entire property on both sides of the municipal border.
c. 
Minimum lot width may be reduced to 90% of the prevailing neighborhood pattern if the new parcel is accessed by a driveway shared with the adjacent property.
d. 
All other bulk restrictions shall be governed by flexible lot standards within this section.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Standard
Code Reference
Parking standards
§ 30-218
Prohibited uses
§ 30-215
Frontage standards
Article 3C
Signage standards
Article 4I
Accessory structures
Article 3E
Site design standards
Article 4A
30 MF2 Multifam Low to Mod Intensity.tif
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The MF-2 Zone includes most of the Town's existing planned multifamily communities. This includes existing garden apartment complexes and townhouse developments. It is recognized that redevelopment of these parcels is unlikely in the near term, given the level of existing improvement. In the event of redevelopment, the code creates for these parcels a development framework that would foster walkable, pedestrian-oriented communities taking inspiration from the New Urbanist movement and the LEED-ND program (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design - Neighborhood Development).
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Existing improvements within the MF-2 District are campus style developments that are largely isolated from the surrounding neighborhood context and existing street network. The design and layout of these communities is typically oriented toward automobile rather than pedestrian accessibility. Redevelopment that occurs pursuant to MF-2 standards will include a variety of building types and walkable streets that deemphasize the automobile. MF-2 standards incorporate standards to minimize the impacts of development upon adjacent property owners, while also allowing small-scale nonresidential uses (i.e., retail) to create neighborhood amenity.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Planned Walkable Neighborhood (PWN): provides the option to develop multiple structures as part of a planned neighborhood development on a minimum of three acres. This overlay zone includes most lands previously zoned as RC (Residential Cluster).
b. 
Critical Infrastructure Overlay (CI): This overlay includes Block 701, Lots 1, 2, and 3; Block 702, Lots 5, 5.01, 5.02, 5.03; and Block 601, Lots 1 and 1.01.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Uses.
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
C: Conditional
Use
MF-2
PWN
CI
Single-family
P
P
NP
Two-family
P
P
NP
Three- to four-family
P
P
NP
Five-or-more-family
NP
P
NP
Home occupation
C
C
NP
Wireless communication antenna
NP
C
C
Critical infrastructure
NP
NP
C
Human habitation of second principal structure
C
C
NP
b. 
Density.
District
Permitted Density (maximum)
(units per acre)
Incentive Density (maximum)1
(units per acre)
MF-2
6
25
PWN
6
16
1
Permitted building types that conform to the standards of Articles 3B, 3C (community character regulations only), and §§ 30-327 to 30-332 may be permitted an increase in residential density as indicated above. The PWN Overlay must also conform to building standards in Subsection 30-207.10a. The aggregate density for proposals within the PWN that conform to design standards is 16 units per acre.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
Building Type
MF-2
PWN
Building Standards
Detached house
P
P
§ 30-302
Semiattached
P
P
§ 30-304
Courtyard
P
P
§ 30-305
Townhome
P
P
§ 30-307
Apartment
NP
P
§ 30-308
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MF2 Lot Stds.tif
MF-2, PWN, CI Standards
a.
Lot width (minimum)
50 feet
b.
Lot depth (minimum)
80 feet
c.
Lot size1 (minimum)
4,000 square feet
Note:
1
Projects in the Planned Walkable Neighborhood (PWN) Overlay shall be at least three acres.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MF2 Bldg Placement.tif
MF-2 Standards
a.
Setbacks
MF-2, PWN, CI
(1)
Build-to-line
Prevailing setback +/- 25%
(2)
Side yard (one) (minimum)
10 feet
(3)
Side yard (both) (minimum)
20 feet
(4)
Rear yard (minimum)
30 feet
b.
Coverage
MF-2, CI
PWN
(1)
Building coverage (maximum)
20%
30%
(2)
Improved coverage (maximum)
30%
70%
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MF2 Bldg Form.tif
Height1
Requirement
a.
Principal structure (maximum)
3 stories/40 feet
b.
Accessory structure(s) (maximum)
15 feet
c.
Finished ground floor, (visible from right-of-way)
18 inches to 24 inches
Note:
1
Building height in the PWN may be measured from the finished grade as opposed to the grade prior to construction, notwithstanding provisions that are contrary in this code.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Home occupations. See Subsection 30-216.4.
b. 
Wireless communication antennas. See Subsection 30-216.5.
c. 
Critical infrastructure. Any changes, modifications or intensification of existing critical infrastructure, or construction of new critical infrastructure, shall include a visual buffer at least 30 feet tall and 20 feet deep, which shall be constructed of both evergreen and deciduous plant material, and may, at the discretion of the approving agency, include masonry landscape walls as may be needed to effectively mitigate impacts to adjacent residences and public rights-of-way.
d. 
Human habitation of second principal structure. See Subsection 30-216.8.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
PWN Overlay building standards.
1. 
No more than three of the same building plan (i.e., facade design) shall be used along a block or opposing block face.
2. 
A minimum of two different building plans shall be used in projects containing three or more buildings.
3. 
Diversity in design may be achieved by variation in color, material, building elements, and differentiation in rooflines and massing.
4. 
Regardless of facade color, identical building plans shall not be used across the street from one another.
5. 
Townhouse building types are permitted on urban residential frontage type or any frontage 100 feet away from a lower-density district.
6. 
Apartment building building types are permitted on urban residential frontage type or any frontage 200 feet away from a lower-density district.
7. 
Townhome building types in the PWN Overlay may be permitted up to a maximum 200 feet wide.
b. 
PWN Overlay frontage/street standards.
1. 
Across the development, the applicant shall use no more than 20% of the site area for all new off-street surface parking facilities, and no individual surface parking lot shall be larger than 1.5 acres. Surface parking facilities include ground-level garages unless they are under habitable building space and separated from the street with habitable space and/or lobby areas. On-street parking spaces are exempt from this limitation.
2. 
On average, on-street parking shall be provided on a minimum of 70% of both sides of all new and existing streets, including the project side of bordering streets. The percentage of on-street parking is calculated by dividing the length of street designated for parking by the total length of the curb along each street, including curb cuts, driveways, and intersection radii. Space within the parking lane that is occupied by corner bulb-outs (within 24 feet or seven meters of an intersection), transit stops, and motorcycle or bicycle parking may be counted as designated for parking in this calculation.
3. 
Off-street parking lots and garages shall not front a public street with the exception of corner parcels. On corner parcels, off-street parking lots and garages may face the street along the side of larger frontage. A minimum of 35 feet of landscaped buffer is required between the edge of any parking areas and the start of the pedestrian realm.
4. 
For 90% of new building frontages, the principal functional entry shall face a public space, such as a street, square, park, paseo, or plaza. In all cases, such entry must be connected to a sidewalk that is a minimum of four feet in width and is connected to the site-wide pedestrian circulation system. No more than 10% of new building frontages may face onto a parking lot.
5. 
Connectivity.
(a) 
Applicants shall design and/or locate the project so that a through street intersects or terminates at the project boundary at least every 400 feet, or at existing abutting street intervals and intersections, whichever is the shorter distance. Connections are not required when the project boundary cannot be made because of physical obstacles, such as prior platting of property, construction of existing buildings or similar barriers.
(b) 
Culs-de-sac are not permitted unless accompanied by a pedestrian path that provides through connectivity.
(c) 
All residential buildings must be accessed through a publicly accessible right-of-way or private access street; gated communities are prohibited.
6. 
Design.
(a) 
On average, streets shall provide street trees on both sides of at least 60% of new and existing streets within the project, and on the project side of bordering streets, at intervals averaging no more than 40 feet (12 meters).
(b) 
Continuous sidewalks on both sides of 100% of new and existing street frontage shall be provided with a minimum width of four feet, or five feet to six feet if adjacent to parking.
c. 
PWN Overlay bicycle network standards.
1. 
In the event that a bicycle path, or a proposed bicycle path as outlined in the Morristown Bicycle Plan of 2013 developed by the Morristown Environmental Commission, passes within 1/4 mile of the project site boundaries, the applicant shall:
(a) 
Cooperate with the Town administration, boards and professionals to effectuate off-site connections to bicycle facilities.
(b) 
Ensure that all properties within the project have access to a bicycle path within 1/4 mile of their front door or the front door of their multifamily building.
2. 
The applicant shall construct parking for bicycles:
(a) 
For all multifamily units, provide at least one secure enclosed bicycle storage per unit. These bicycle parking spaces do not have to be dedicated to each unit.
(b) 
Provision of unenclosed bicycle parking shall conform to the standards located in Article 4H.
d. 
PWN Overlay open space/landscaping/garden standards.
1. 
Applicants shall locate and/or design the project such that a civic or passive use space, such as a square, park, or plaza, at least 1/6 acre (7,260 square feet) in area lies within a one-fourth-mile walking distance of 90% of the planned and existing dwelling units and nonresidential building entrances. Spaces less than one acre must have a proportion no narrower than one unit of width to four units of length. Open space located on the rear side of a building shall not count towards this requirement.
2. 
Seating shall be provided at a rate of one linear foot of suitable surface for every 30 feet of open space.
3. 
At least 25% of the total site shall be dedicated to common open space.
4. 
Landscaping shall be located to provide effective climatic control. The walls of a building shall be heavily vegetated on the east and west walls to provide shade from the summer sun, and the north and northwest walls to protect from winter prevailing winds. The southerly facing side of a building shall be shaded from the summer sun but open for solar gain during the winter.
5. 
To the greatest extent practicable all healthy existing trees 18 inches DBH (diameter at breast height, measured four feet above ground level) or more shall be preserved.
6. 
Individual lot landscape plans (also known as "foundation planting plans") shall be prepared for all building types. The plans shall specify foundation plant materials as well as screening and additional tree plantings. The number of plantings shall be considered over and above street tree, buffer, and basin landscape requirements.
7. 
The applicant shall use any combination of the following strategies for 50% of the nonroof site hardscape (including roads, sidewalks, courtyards, parking lots, parking structures, and driveways):
(a) 
Provide shade from open structures, such as those supporting solar photovoltaic panels, canopied walkways, and vine pergolas, all with a solar reflectance index (SRI) of at least 29;
(b) 
Use paving materials with an SRI of at least 29;
(c) 
Install an open-grid pavement system that is at least 50% pervious; and/or
(d) 
Provide shade from tree canopy (within 10 years of landscape installation).
8. 
The applicant shall not establish covenants, conditions, and restrictions or other forms of deed restrictions which state that the growing of produce is not prohibited in project areas, including greenhouses, any portion of residential front, rear, or side yards; or balconies, patios, or rooftops.
9. 
Greenhouses (but not gardens) are prohibited in front yards that face the street.
10. 
Applicants are encouraged to provide 100 square feet of community garden space for each dwelling unit constructed. Applicants who meet this requirement so that 90% of all units have community garden space within 1/8 mile of their front door shall be permitted to increase the maximum improved coverage ratio of their building types by 5%.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Standard
Code Reference
Parking standards
§ 30-218
Prohibited uses
§ 30-215
Frontage standards
Article 3C
Signage standards
Article 4I
Accessory structures
Article 3E
Site design standards
Article 4A
30 MF3 Multifam Mod Intensity.tif
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The intent of the MF-3 Zone is to provide for targeted development and preservation of high-density residential properties. Borders largely reflect areas of existing high-density residential development in neighborhoods near the Town's core.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The MF-3 Zone consists primarily of properties that have been redeveloped for intense multifamily residential purposes. Generally, the properties in these districts are larger lots not directly adjacent to a commercial corridor. Development in this zone will be auto-oriented; however, the design of the properties will require special consideration to ensure that a pedestrian-friendly streetscape is created.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Neighborhood Overlay (N): The Neighborhood Overlay Zone provides additional flexibility for smaller-sized lots. This flexibility allows for the construction of multifamily buildings scaled to fit the context of a lower-intensity neighborhood character.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Uses.
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
C: Conditional
Use
MF-3
N Overlay
Single-family
NP
P
Two-family
NP
P
Three- to four-family
NP
C
Five-or-more-family
P
C
Home occupation
C
C
Human habitation of second principal structure
C
C
b. 
Density.
District
Permitted Density
(units per acre)
Incentive Density1
(units per acre)
MF-3
15
45
N
15
N/A
Note:
1
Permitted building types that conform to the standards of Articles 3B, 3C (community character regulations only), and §§ 30-327 to 30-332 may be permitted an increase in residential density as indicated above.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
Building Type
MF-3
N Overlay
Building Standards
Detached house
NP
P
§ 30-302
Semiattached
NP
P
§ 30-304
Courtyard
NP
P
§ 30-305
Townhome
P
P
§ 30-307
Apartment building
P
NP
§ 30-308
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MF3 Lot Stds.tif
MF-3 Standards
MF-3
N Overlay
a.
Lot width (minimum) (feet)
100
60
b.
Lot depth (minimum) (feet)
150
100
c.
Lot size (minimum) (feet)
15,000
6,000
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MF3 Bldg Placement.tif
MF-3 Standards
MF-3
N Overlay
a.
Setbacks
(1)
Build-to-line
Prevailing setback +/-25%
(2)
Side yard (one) (minimum) (feet)
20
10
(3)
Side yard (both) (minimum) (feet)
50
25
(4)
Rear yard (minimum) (feet)
30
20
b.
Coverage
(1)
Building coverage (maximum)
25%
Standard shall use semiattached building type per Part 3.
(2)
Improved coverage (maximum)
55%
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MF3 Bldg Form.tif
MF-3 and MF-3(N) Height
Requirement
a.
Principal structure (maximum)
3 stories/40 feet
b.
Accessory structure(s) (maximum)
15 feet
c.
Finished ground floor (visible from right-of-way)
18 inches to 24 inches
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Three- to-four-family uses.
1. 
Must conform to the design standards in Article 3B and the community character regulations in frontage standards per Article 3C.
2. 
Three-family uses shall be permitted in courtyard building types only.
3. 
Four-family uses shall be permitted in townhouse building types only.
4. 
Units shall be a minimum of 800 square feet in floor area.
5. 
Shall only be permitted in conjunction with construction of new buildings.
b. 
Five-or-more-family uses.
1. 
Must conform to the design standards in Article 3B and the community character regulations in frontage standards per Article 3C.
2. 
Permitted in townhouse building building types only.
3. 
Shall be permitted on urban residential and downtown feeder frontage types only.
4. 
Density may only be calculated on lands containing slopes less than 25% or areas that are less than 25% but are separated from the public right-of-way by a slope of 25% or greater.
5. 
Shall only be permitted in conjunction with construction of new buildings.
c. 
Home occupation.
1. 
See Subsection 30-216.4.
d. 
Human habitation of second principal structure.
1. 
See Subsection 30-216.8.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Standard
Code Reference
Parking standards
§ 30-218
Prohibited uses
§ 30-215
Frontage standards
Article 3C
Signage standards
Article 4I
Accessory structures
Article 3E
Site design standards
Article 4A
30 MX1 Mixed Use Detached Neighborhood.tif
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The purpose of the MX-1 is to protect Morristown's architectural heritage by providing opportunities to repurpose old residential estates for a mix of residential and office uses. This district accommodates mixed-use development at a lower intensity through the Retail Overlay, which preserves traditional neighborhood-scale commercial uses. Though commercial uses are permitted in this zone, the primary character is intended to be residential in appearance.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The MX-1 Zone can be identified primarily by the form of its constituent buildings. The dominant building type is the estate building, reflecting Morristown's residential heritage. In other areas, primarily in the Retail Overlay, the urban small building type is more common. In both cases, the MX-1 reflects a mixed-use neighborhood typical of a small town or neighborhood. The primary uses are residential and small-scale office. Retail and other services are intended primarily to serve a local customer base, and not intended for larger or more intense purposes.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Retail Overlay (R): The retail overlay permits retail uses in building types permitted within the MX-1 Zone, and conditionally permits a wider range of building types, while setting forth conditional use requirements for restaurants and dining on the ground floor of buildings in the district.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Uses.
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
C: Conditional
Use
MX-1
R Overlay
Single-family
P
NP
Two-family
P
P
Three- to four-family
C
C
Five-or-more-family
C
C
Art gallery
P
P
Artisan workshop
P
P
Child-care center
P
P
Market
NP
P
Media production1
P
P
Office, general and professional1
P
P
Office, medical1
P
P
Services, personal and general
NP
P
Restaurant, sit-down
NP
P
Restaurant, liquor-licensed
NP
C
Restaurant, cafe
NP
C
School
C
C
House of worship
C
C
Human habitation of second principal structure
C
C
Note:
1
In building where at minimum 25% of floor area, excluding basement, is occupied by at least one residential dwelling unit.
b. 
Density.
Intensity (MX-1 and R Overlay)
Permitted
a.
Permitted density (maximum)
6 units/acre
b.
Incentive density1 (maximum)
20 units/acre
c.
FAR1, 2 (maximum)
0.5
Notes:
1
Permitted building types that conform to the standards of Articles 3B, 3C (community character regulations only), and §§ 30-327 to 30-332 may be permitted an increase in residential density as indicated above, and shall be exempt from FAR as indicated above.
2
Modifications to existing buildings that do not conform to applicable lot regulations and building regulations (of a permitted building type) and building height of the district, arising from existing lot or building characteristics, shall not be subject to maximum FAR standards based on the presence of lawfully preexisting nonconformities. This exemption shall not apply to any nonconformities resulting from modifications to existing lot characteristics (i.e., subdivision/merger).
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
Building Type
MX-1
R Overlay
Building Standards
a.
Detached
P
P
§ 30-302
b.
Estate
P
NP
§ 30-303
c.
Semiattached
P
P
§ 30-304
d.
Courtyard
P
P
§ 30-305
e.
Townhome
P1
P1
§ 30-307
f.
Urban small
NP
P
§ 30-313
Note:
1
Not permitted on Flex Frontages or Office Residential Character Frontages.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MX1 Lot Stds.tif
MX-1 Lot Standards
a.
Lot width (minimum)
60 feet
b.
Lot depth (minimum)
65 feet
c.
Lot size (minimum)
3,900 square feet
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MX1 Bldg Placement.tif
MX-1 Standards
a.
Setbacks
(1)
Build-to-line
Prevailing setback
+/- 25%
(2)
Side yard (one) (minimum)
10 feet
(3)
Side yard (both) (minimum)
25 feet
(4)
Rear yard (minimum)
30 feet
b.
Coverage
c.
Building coverage (maximum)
20%
d.
Improved coverage (maximum)1
30%
Note:
1
Properties within the MX-1 District may be improved to a maximum impervious coverage of 70% so long as such properties are improved with a permitted building type at the time of adoption of this chapter. This additional coverage shall only be applicable to mixed-use structures, but shall not be applicable in cases where 25% or more of the gross floor area of any existing principal structure is (or is proposed to be) demolished. These standards shall supersede any conflicting regulations contained in Part 3.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MX1 Bldg Form.tif
Height
Minimum
Maximum
a.
Principal structure
2 stories/24 feet
3 stories/36 feet1
b.
Accessory structure(s)
15 feet
c.
Finished ground floor (commercial 1st floor)
Grade level
d.
Finished ground floor (residential 1st floor visible from right-of-way)
18 inches
24 inches
Note:
1
Ground floor use is proposed, an additional one foot of building height is permitted for every foot of ground story floor-to-ceiling height in excess of 12 feet. Bonus height shall not exceed five additional feet. Any deviation in height shall be calculated from the "base height" (i.e., maximum height permitted in the district without the application of any bonuses).
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Three- to four-family uses.
1. 
Must conform to the design standards in Article 3B and the community character regulations in frontage standards per Article 3C.
2. 
Three-family uses shall be permitted in courtyard building types only.
3. 
Four-family uses shall be permitted in townhouse building types only.
4. 
Units shall be a minimum of 800 square feet in floor area.
5. 
Shall only be permitted in conjunction with construction of new buildings.
b. 
Five-or-more-family uses.
1. 
Must conform to the design standards in Article 3B and the community character regulations in frontage standards per Article 3C.
2. 
Permitted in townhouse building types only.
3. 
Shall be permitted on urban residential and downtown feeder frontage types only.
4. 
Density may only be calculated on lands containing slopes less than 25% or areas that are less than 25% but are separated from the public right-of-way by a slope of 25% or greater.
5. 
Shall be located on lots with a total area of 12,500 square feet or more.
6. 
Shall only be permitted in conjunction with construction of new buildings.
c. 
Restaurant, cafe.
1. 
Cafe shall not exceed 1,000 square feet.
2. 
Total area of all signage may not exceed six square feet.
3. 
Deliveries shall be made in a vehicle no larger than a full-size passenger van.
4. 
Shall not require exterior alterations to buildings constructed before 1950.
5. 
Shall not require changes to the finished floor elevation.
6. 
Parking shall be located in the rear of the property and screened from view of the general public.
7. 
Required ADA ramps and other ADA improvements shall be located in the rear of the building and provide direct access to the parking area.
d. 
Restaurant, liquor-licensed.
1. 
Shall conform to conditional use standards for liquor-licensed restaurants contained in Subsection 30-216.1.
e. 
Houses of worship.
1. 
May only be permitted as an expansion of a larger house of worship campus where the use is permitted and where the campus connects to a street frontage on which the use is permitted.
2. 
A minimum 50% of all required parking shall be under ownership of the religious organization and shall be within 200 feet of the church.
3. 
Houses of worship shall be located along the following frontage types: downtown frontage, main street frontage, downtown feeder, main street feeder, office corridor or flex corridor.
4. 
The application shall be accompanied by the existing or proposed charter, bylaws of the organization and other documentation necessary to show that the organization:
(a) 
Is a registered nonprofit religious organization.
(b) 
Has been granted an exemption from taxation under the laws of both the State of New Jersey and the United States.
5. 
The organization shall not engage in sales of products or materials to the general public, or engage in commercial activity except for the following cases:
(a) 
Rental of premises for meetings of other groups and events.
(b) 
Fundraisers occurring over no more than four weekends per year.
(c) 
Sale of religious articles, books and items.
f. 
Schools.
1. 
All parking shall be provided on-site.
2. 
Schools shall be located along the following frontage types: downtown frontage, main street frontage, downtown feeder, main street feeder, office corridor, or flex corridor.
g. 
Human habitation of second principal structure.
1. 
See Subsection 30-216.8.
Standards
Code Reference
Parking standards
§ 30-218
Prohibited uses
§ 30-215
Frontage standards
Article 3C
Signage standards
Article 4I
Accessory structures
Article 3E
Site design standards
Article 4A
30 MX2 Mixed Use Mod Density.tif
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The MX-2 Zone encompasses mixed use neighborhoods located on corridors outside of and disconnected from the downtown area. These neighborhoods will be more auto-oriented, but still provide a pedestrian-friendly experience. Neighborhoods in the MX-2 District are better suited for larger format commercial uses.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The MX-2 Zone is concentrated along Madison Avenue and Ridgedale Avenue. Ridgedale Avenue consists of a variety of multistory building types and uses. Madison Avenue, located in the Large Lot Overlay, is dominated by large office buildings ranging from four to six stories. Larger setbacks provide an additional buffer from the higher speeds of the local streets.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Large-Lot Overlay (L-L): The Large Lot Overlay provides for higher-intensity uses along Madison Avenue, which is consistent with the current pattern of development. The principal uses along this corridor are offices and medical offices.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 12-14-2021 by Ord. No. O-33-2021; 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Uses.
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
C: Conditional
Use
MX-2
L-L
Single-family
P
NP
Two-family
P
NP
Three- to four-family
P
NP
Five-or-more-family
P
NP
Art gallery
P
NP
Artisan workshop
P
NP
Brewery/brewpub
C
NP
Child-care center
P
P
Convenience store
P
NP
Funeral homes
C
NP
Supermarket
C
NP
Market
P
NP
Laboratory (medical/dental)
NP
P
Media production
P
P
Offices, general and professional
P
P
Office, medical
NP
P
Parking
C
NP
Services, business or personal
P
NP
Restaurant (carry-out/fast-food)
C
NP
Restaurant (coffee shop/cafe)
P
NP
Restaurant (full-service/sit-down)
P
NP
Restaurant (liquor-licensed)
C
NP
Retail
P
NP
Club, lodge, fraternal organization
P
NP
Community center
P
NP
House of worship
C
C
Nightclub or bar
C
NP
Nursing/convalescent home
NP
P
School
C
C
Wireless communication antennas
C
C
Medical cannabis dispensaries and cannabis dispensaries
C
C
Human habitation of second principal structure
C
NP
Coworking facilities
P
NP
b. 
Density.
Intensity
Permitted1
a.
Permitted density (maximum)(MX-2 only)
15 units/acre
b.
Incentive density1(maximum) (MX-2 only)
20 units/acre
c.
Floor area ratio (maximum)1, 2
1
Notes:
1
Permitted building types that conform to the standards of Articles 3B, 3C (community character regulations only), and §§ 30-327 to 30-332 may be permitted an increase in residential density as indicated above, and shall be exempt from FAR as indicated above.
2
Modifications to existing buildings that do not conform to applicable lot regulations and building regulations (of a permitted building type) and building height of the district, arising from existing lot or building characteristics, shall not be subject to maximum FAR standards based on the presence of lawfully preexisting nonconformities. This exemption shall not apply to any nonconformities resulting from modifications to existing lot characteristics (i.e., subdivision/merger).
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
Building Type
MX-2
L-L Overlay
Building Standards
Detached
P
NP
§ 30-302
Semiattached
P
NP
§ 30-304
Courtyard
P
NP
§ 30-305
Townhome
P
NP
§ 30-307
Suburban office
NP
P
§ 30-311
Suburban small
P
P
§ 30-309
Suburban large
P
P
§ 30-310
Urban small
P
NP
§ 30-313
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MX2 Lot Stds.tif
Lot Characteristics1
a.
Lot width (minimum)
60 feet
b.
Lot depth (minimum)
65 feet
c.
Lot size (minimum)
3,900 feet
Note:
1
These lot standards shall only apply to the MX-2 (no overlay) District. L-L Overlay shall defer to suburban small building type (§ 30-309) for lot standards.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MX2 Bldg Placement.tif
MX-2 Standards
MX-2
L-L Overlay
a.
Setbacks
(1)
Build-to-line
Prevailing setback +/-25%
100 feet to 150 feet
(2)
Side yard (one) (minimum)
10 feet
Refer to suburban small building type.
(§ 30-309)
(3)
Side yard (both) (minimum)
25 feet
(4)
Rear yard (minimum)
30 feet
b.
Coverage
(1)
Building coverage (maximum)
Refer to semiattached building type.
(§ 30-304)
Refer to suburban small building type.
(§ 30-309)
(2)
Improved coverage (maximum)
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 MX2 Bldg Form.tif
Height
Minimum
Maximum
a.
Principal structure (MX-2)
2 stories/24 feet
3 stories/36 feet1
Principal structure (L-L Overlay)
3 stories/40 feet
6 stories/72 feet1
b.
Accessory structure(s)
15 feet
c.
Finished ground floor (commercial 1st floor)
Grade level
d.
Finished ground floor (residential 1st floor visible from right-of-way)
18 inches
24 inches
Note:
1
Active ground floor height bonus (See definition.): Where an active ground floor use is proposed, an additional one foot of building height is permitted for every foot of ground story floor-to-ceiling height in excess of 12 feet. Bonus height shall not exceed five additional feet. Any deviation in height shall be calculated from the base height (i.e., maximum height permitted in the district without the application of any bonuses).
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Breweries and brewpubs.
1. 
Shall conform to requirements for breweries and brewpubs contained in Subsection 30-216.3
b. 
Funeral homes.
1. 
Funeral home uses must submit a traffic management plan, particularly detailing the queuing of vehicles in procession from the funeral home to the cemetery as may be the case.
c. 
Supermarkets.
1. 
The street-facing ground floor shall be occupied by active uses.
2. 
For the purpose of these conditions, the outdoor display and sale of fresh fruits and vegetables along the building frontage shall be considered an active use.
3. 
Large grocery stores shall have at least one primary entrance located on the street front.
4. 
Any required additional floors shall cover no less than 50% the linear frontage of the building. Uses in additional floors may be permitted to include cafes, office or other uses accessory to the grocery store use.
5. 
A delivery and trash collection management strategy shall be presented to the Board for review and approval.
6. 
Permitted in suburban large and urban large building types only.
d. 
Parking.
1. 
All structured parking and newly constructed surface parking shall be screened from the public right-of-way by a liner building. All other parking shall be screened from the public right-of-way through the use of walls, landscaping and other site design treatments.
2. 
Parking facilities used to meet parking demand of off-site uses shall operate under an off-site agreement as contained in § 30-218.
3. 
All structured parking facilities used for public parking shall have separate pedestrian doors and a well-lit lobby that conforms to the design requirements of Subsection 30-333.5.
4. 
All parking facilities used for paid public parking shall incorporate parking occupation sensors to alert drivers to the availability of spaces and payment-upon-departure systems to minimize the amount of on-street queuing.
e. 
Restaurant, liquor-licensed.
1. 
Shall conform with conditional use standards for liquor-licensed restaurants contained in Subsection 30-216.1.
f. 
Houses of worship.
1. 
A minimum 50% of all required parking shall be under ownership of the religious organization and shall be within 200 feet of the church.
2. 
Houses of worship shall be located along the following frontage types: downtown frontage, main street frontage, downtown feeder, main street feeder, office corridor or flex corridor.
3. 
The application shall be accompanied by the existing or proposed charter, bylaws of the organization and other documentation necessary to show that the organization:
(a) 
Is a registered nonprofit religious organization.
(b) 
Has been granted a taxation exemption under the laws of both the State of New Jersey and the United States.
4. 
The organization shall not engage in sales of products or materials to the general public, or engage in commercial activity except for the following cases:
(a) 
Rental of premises for meetings of other groups and events.
(b) 
Fundraisers occurring over no more than four weekends per year.
(c) 
Sale of religious articles, books and items.
g. 
Restaurant, carry-out/fast-food.
1. 
Shall only be permitted in mixed-use buildings.
2. 
Shall be permitted only in urban small, urban large building types.
h. 
Nightclub/bar.
1. 
Shall conform with conditional use standards for nightclub and bar uses contained in Subsection 30-216.2.
i. 
Schools.
1. 
All parking shall be provided on-site.
2. 
Schools shall be located along the following frontage types: downtown frontage, main street frontage, downtown feeder, main street feeder, office corridor, or flex corridor.
j. 
Wireless communication antennas.
1. 
See Subsection 30-216.5.
k. 
Medical cannabis dispensaries and cannabis dispensaries.
1. 
See Subsection 30-216.7.
l. 
Human habitation of second principal structure.
1. 
See Subsection 30-216.8.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Standard
Code Reference
Parking standards
§ 30-218
Prohibited uses
§ 30-215
Frontage standards
Article 3C
Signage standards
Article 4I
Accessory structures
Article 3E
Site design standards
Article 4A
30 TC Town Center.tif
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The Town Center is the heart of Morristown and provides for the highest development intensity. Pedestrian activity is greatest in the core, and design should be most oriented to walkability. A thorough mix of residential, office and retail uses will promote a vibrant downtown and allow families to live comfortably without access to a car.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The Town Center Zone consists of mixed use buildings typically ranging from two to four stories with a shallow setback from the public right-of-way. Buildings increase in height up to five stories in the Morristown Green and Train Station Overlays and up to six stories in the Headquarters Plaza Overlay, where some preexisting towers range up to 14 stories.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Transit Overlay District (TOD): The Transit Overlay directs development around the train station and is intended to create a stronger pedestrian connection between the train station and the Morristown Green. The overlay allows additional height in an area suitable to higher-intensity uses, given its proximity of the train station. A comfortable and welcoming pedestrian environment throughout the overlay is a priority.
b. 
Morristown Green Overlay District (MG): The Morristown Green Overlay allows for greater height and bulk in the traditional downtown center of Morristown, which honors the character of existing development in this neighborhood. Buildings in the overlay district range from four to five stories and have minimal setbacks.
c. 
Headquarters Plaza Overlay District (HQP): The Headquarters Plaza Overlay accommodates greater building height at Headquarters Plaza, reflecting current development patterns. Office and hotel uses above ground-floor retail uses are recommended in this location.
d. 
Transitional Overlay District (T): The Transitional Overlay regulates areas further from the downtown core that require lower-intensity development due to their location on the edges of downtown, existing conditions, and/or proximity to lower-intensity residential areas.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Uses.
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
C: Conditional
Use
TC, T
TOD
MG
HQP
Three- to four-family
P
P
P
NP
Five-or-more-family
P
P
P
NP
Art gallery
P
P
P
P
Artisan workshop
C
NP
NP
NP
Child-care center
P
P
P
P
Funeral home
C
NP
NP
NP
Live/work
C
C
C
C
Convenience store
P
P
P
P
Market
P
P
P
P
Supermarket
C
C
C
C
Hotel
C
C
C
C
Theater
C
C
C
C
Gaming
P
P
P
P
Media production
P
P
P
P
Offices, general and professional
P
P
P
P
Offices, medical
P
P
P
P
Coworking facilities
P
P
P
P
Parking
C
C
C
C
Services, business or personal
P
P
P
P
Restaurant (carry-out/fast-food)
C
C
C
C
Restaurant (coffee shop/cafe)
P
P
P
P
Restaurant (full-service/sit-down)
P
P
P
P
Restaurant (liquor-licensed)
C
C
C
C
Bar/nightclub
C
C
C
C
Breweries/brewpubs
C
C
C
C
Retail
P
P
P
P
Club/lodge/fraternal organization
P
P
P
P
Community center
P
P
P
P
Government/utility offices
P
P
P
P
House of worship
C
C
C
C
Park/playground
P
P
P
P
School
C
C
C
C
Outdoor dining
C
C
C
C
Wireless communication antennas
C
C
C
C
Medical cannabis dispensaries and cannabis dispensaries
C
C
C
C
Valet parking
C
C
C
C
Human habitation of second principal structure
C
C
C
NP
Extended stay
NP
C
C
NP
Note:
See Subsection. 30-211.9 for conditional use standards in the TC District.
b. 
Density.
Density
TC
T
TOD, MG
a.
Units per acre (maximum)
30
20
50
c. 
Floor area ratio (gross).
Floor Area Ratio (Gross)
Permitted FAR1
a.
Town Center (TC)
2.5 (maximum)
b.
Overlay
2.0 (maximum)
c.
TOD Overlay
4.0 (maximum)
d.
MG Overlay
4.0 (maximum)
e.
HQP Overlay
2.0 (maximum)
Note:
1
Permitted building types that conform to the standards of Articles 3B, 3C (community character regulations only), and §§ 30-327 to 30-332 (or any conflicting standards contained in Subsection 30-211.10) may be exempt from FAR as indicated above.
Modifications to existing buildings that do not conform to applicable lot regulations and building regulations (of a permitted building type), and building height of the district, arising from existing lot or building characteristics shall not be subject to maximum FAR standards based on the presence of lawfully preexisting nonconformities. This exemption shall not apply to any nonconformities resulting from modifications to existing lot characteristics (i.e., subdivision/merger).
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
Building Type
TC, T, TOD, MG
HQP
Estate
P1
NP
Urban small
P
P
Townhome
P2
NP
Urban large
P3
P3
Mixed use tower/complex
NP
P4
Notes:
1
Estate buildings are permitted only if such buildings were in existence at the time of this Code's adoption.
2
Not permitted on downtown, downtown feeder and main street frontage types
3
Not permitted on office residential frontage type
4
Only permitted on east side of Speedwell Avenue
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 TC Lot Stds.tif
Lot Characteristics (all districts)
a.
Lot width (maximum)
250 feet
b.
Lot depth (minimum)
100 feet
c.
Lot size (maximum)
25,000 square feet
Note:
See Subsection 30-211.10 for additional HQP standards.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 TC Bldg Placement.tif
Standard (all districts)
Requirement
a.
Setbacks
(1)
Build-to-line
0 feet 10 feet1
(2)
Side yard (one) (minimum)
Refer to urban small building type. (See Part 3.)
(3)
Side yard (both) (minimum)
(4)
Rear yard (minimum)
b.
Coverage
(1)
Building coverage (maximum)
Refer to urban small building type. (See Part 3.)
(2)
Improved coverage (maximum)
Notes:
See Subsection 30-211.10 for additional HQP standards.
1
In cases where existing principal buildings on adjacent parcels are set back zero feet on downtown and main street frontage types, the required setback shall be zero feet.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 TC Bldg Form.tif
Building Height
Minimum1
Maximum2
a.
TC principal structure
2 stories
4 stories/48 feet
T principal structure
2 stories
3 stories/40 feet
TOD principal structure
3 stories
5 stories/60 feet
MG principal structure
3 stories
5 stories/60 feet
HQP principal structure
5 stories
6 stories/72 feet
b.
Accessory structure(s)
15 feet
c.
Finished ground floor (commercial 1st floor)
Grade level
d.
Finished ground floor (residential 1st floor visible from right-of-way)
18 inches
24 inches
Notes:
1
Minimum building height shall comply with stories indicated above. Minimum feet shall comply with floor height standards contained in building type standards. (See Part 3.)
2
Maximum building height shall comply with the following additional regulations/allowances:
Active ground floor height bonus (See definition.): Where an active ground floor use is proposed, an additional one foot of building height is permitted for every foot of ground story floor-to-ceiling height in excess of 12 feet. Bonus height shall not exceed five additional feet. Any deviation in height shall be calculated from the base height (i.e., maximum height permitted in the district without the application of any bonuses).
Variable roof bonus: An additional one foot of building height is permitted for every foot of top story floor-to-ceiling height in excess of 12 feet. Bonus height shall not exceed five additional feet and areas with floor-to-floor height above 12 feet shall comprise no more than 20% of floor area on the top story. Any deviation in height shall be calculated from the base height (i.e., maximum height permitted in the district without the application of any bonuses).
When any TC or overlay abuts a residential only district, the portion of the building's permitted height within a thirty-foot buffer from any such residential district shall be limited to four stories/48 feet.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 12-14-2021 by Ord. No. O-33-2021; 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023; 5-14-2024 by Ord. No. O-9-2-24]
a. 
Artisan workshop.
1. 
Shall not be permitted on downtown or main street frontage types.
b. 
Funeral homes.
1. 
Funeral home uses must submit a traffic management plan, particularly detailing the queuing of vehicles in procession from the funeral home to the cemetery as may be the case.
c. 
Live/work.
1. 
Shall not be permitted on downtown or main street street frontages.
2. 
The residential portion of the unit shall be directly connected to the work portion of the unit.
3. 
The work portion of the unit shall be no less than 30 feet in depth measured from the front of the building.
4. 
A visual barrier shall separate the residential portion of the building from the work portion of the building.
5. 
The residential portion may only be occupied by the owner, manager, or employee of the work portion of the unit and associated family members.
6. 
The work portion of the unit shall be located along the street frontage and shall provide between 60% and 80% transparency.
7. 
The residential portion of the unit may not front along the street front on the ground level.
8. 
The work portion of the unit shall not exceed 50% of the unit's floor.
d. 
Supermarkets.
1. 
The street-facing ground floor shall be occupied by active uses.
2. 
Large grocery stores shall have at least one primary entrance located on the street front.
3. 
Any additional floors shall cover no less than 50% of the linear frontage of the building. Uses on additional floors may include cafes, office or other uses accessory to the grocery store use.
4. 
A delivery and trash collection management strategy shall be presented to the Board for review and approval.
e. 
Hotels.
1. 
Food or alcohol service shall conform to the relevant conditions for liquor-licensed restaurant, bar or nightclub, or breweries/brewpubs.
2. 
Off-site parking, if proposed, shall be managed through a valet service.
f. 
Theaters.
1. 
Where active ground floor use is required, no more than 25 feet of frontage may be dedicated to the theater.
2. 
Any additional width of the theater shall be fronted either by an active ground floor use or by a public plaza.
3. 
Use of a public plaza to meet active ground floor use requirements shall incorporate the following standards:
(a) 
Be located along the street frontage requiring active ground floor uses.
(b) 
Be no less than 15 feet deep as measured from the edge of the sidewalk.
(c) 
Provide seating at a rate of one linear foot per 30 square feet of plaza area.
(d) 
Seating shall be no less than 18 inches high and no more than 24 inches high.
(e) 
The plaza area shall be open to and immediately accessible from the sidewalk for no less than 50% of the frontage.
g. 
Parking.
1. 
All structured parking and newly constructed surface parking shall be screened from the public right-of-way by a liner building. All other parking shall be screened from the public right-of-way through the use of walls, landscaping and other site design treatments.
2. 
Parking facilities used to meet parking demand of off-site uses shall operate under an off-site agreement as contained in Subsection 30-218.4f.
3. 
All structured parking facilities used for public parking shall have separate pedestrian doors and a well-lit lobby that conforms to the design requirements of Subsection 30-333.5.
4. 
All parking facilities used for paid public parking shall incorporate parking occupation sensors to alert drivers to the availability of spaces and shall incorporate payment upon departure systems to minimize the amount of on-street queuing.
h. 
Restaurant, fast-food.
1. 
Shall only be permitted in mixed-use buildings.
2. 
Shall be permitted only in urban small, urban large, and mixed-use tower/complex building types.
i. 
Restaurant, liquor-licensed.
1. 
Shall conform to conditional use standards for liquor-licensed restaurants contained in Subsection 30-216.1.
j. 
Nightclub/bar.
1. 
Shall conform to conditional use standards for nightclub and bar uses contained in Subsection 216.2.
k. 
Breweries and brewpubs.
1. 
Shall conform to conditional use standards for brewery and brewpub uses contained in Subsection 30-216.3.
l. 
Houses of worship.
1. 
A minimum 50% of all required parking shall be under ownership of the religious organization and shall be within 200 feet of the church.
2. 
Houses of worship shall be located along the following frontage types: downtown frontage, main street frontage, downtown feeder, main street feeder, office corridor or flex corridor.
3. 
The application shall be accompanied by the existing or proposed charter, bylaws of the organization and other documentation necessary to show that the organization:
(a) 
Is a registered nonprofit religious organization.
(b) 
Has been granted an exemption from taxation under the laws of both the State of New Jersey and the United States.
4. 
The organization shall not engage in sales of products or materials to the general public, or engage in commercial activity except for the following cases:
(a) 
Rental of premises for meetings of other groups and events.
(b) 
Fundraisers occurring over no more than four weekends per year.
(c) 
Sale of religious articles, books and items.
m. 
Schools.
1. 
Schools shall be located along the following frontage types: downtown frontage, main street frontage, downtown feeder, main street feeder office corridor, or flex corridor.
n. 
Outdoor dining.
1. 
Use of outdoor dining facilities shall not be permitted after 11:00 p.m. nightly.
2. 
All tables and chairs within the establishment shall be stationary during open operations. Exceptions for rearranging tables to accommodate larger groups are permitted. A seating plan shall be a component of the site plan approval.
3. 
In addition, outdoor dining shall not be permitted upon parcels that have been rendered nonconforming with regard to build-to-line occupancy resulting from the demolition of a conforming structure that exists at the time of adoption. For the purposes of this provision, the term "conforming" shall be limited to build-to-line occupancy.
4. 
Outdoor dining shall be set back 10 feet from any residential property line and 15 feet from any residential district line.
5. 
A landscaped buffer shall be provided along any residential property line or residential district line according to the following standards:
(a) 
A fence or wall shall be provided along the property line pursuant to § 30-418.
(b) 
A vegetative buffer five feet in depth shall be provided between the fence and the outdoor dining area.
(c) 
Trees shall be planted within the vegetative buffer at a height of 10 feet at planting.
6. 
Outdoor dining shall be limited to terraces and ground decks.
o. 
Wireless communication antennas.
1. 
See Subsection 30-216.5.
p. 
Medical cannabis dispensaries and cannabis dispensaries.
1. 
See Subsection 30-216.7.
q. 
Valet parking.
1. 
Valet parking shall comply with the requirements of Subsection 30-216.5g.
r. 
Human habitation of second principal structure
1. 
See Subsection 30-216.8.
s. 
Extended stay.
1. 
An extended stay use shall be located within a mixed-use building.
(a) 
The ground floor of the building shall contain a minimum of 1,000 square feet of commercial space separate and apart from the extended stay use. Commercial space shall be subject to active ground floor requirements, as applicable, pursuant to Article 3C, § 30-315 et seq.
(b) 
The building shall contain dwelling units equal to, or greater than, the number of extended stay guest rooms.
(c) 
The building in which extended stays are located shall contain at a combination of at least 100 dwelling units and extended stay guest rooms.
2. 
The minimum size of any extended stay guest room shall not be less than 650 square feet.
3. 
At least 50% of the extended stay guest rooms shall be configured with one sleeping room.
4. 
No extended stay guest room shall have more than two sleeping rooms.
5. 
At least 50% of the extended stay guest rooms shall be furnished.
6. 
Extended stays shall provide housekeeping and laundry services for guests.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Generally.
1. 
Loading bays shall not be permitted to front on downtown frontage types.
2. 
Active uses are required on the ground floor.
b. 
Mixed-use tower/complex standards.
1. 
A building is permitted to exceed heights listed in this section for the HQP Overlay and build to a maximum of 14 stories and 182 feet as noted under HQP building height. However, the maximum height of any new construction upon the undeveloped land along Spring Street shall be defined as "the highest point of the parapet at the rear of the existing plaza fronting along Speedwell Avenue."
2. 
Windows may not be obstructed through use of glazing, screens, or other visual impediments.
3. 
A minimum of 30% of the air rights parcel site area over the multilevel parking facility shall be used for publicly accessible open space, including, but not limited to, plazas, gardens, walkways, and playgrounds.
c. 
Urban large.
1. 
Urban large building type in the HQP Overlay is not required to provide a side yard, and there is no minimum side yard requirement when a side yard is provided.
2. 
Urban large building type in the HQP Overlay is not required to provide a minimum rear yard.
3. 
Urban large building type in the HQP Overlay is permitted a maximum of 300 feet in frontage width and 300 feet in building width.
4. 
Urban large building type in the HQP Overlay is not required to conform to the standards established in Subsection 30-314.3(F).
5. 
Urban large building type in the HQP Overlay may be permitted a maximum building coverage of 95%.
6. 
Urban large building type in the HQP Overlay may be permitted a maximum lot coverage of 100%.
7. 
Urban large building type in the HQP Overlay shall provide step backs as required per Article 3C and § 30-330, except that step back shall be at the sixth story and shall only be required along 50% of street frontage.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Step backs shall be required in the TC District and its overlays as detailed in the below table. Where the below standards conflict with those step back standards contained in Article 3C, the below standards shall supersede.
Step Backs
Step Back at Height
TC
4th Story
TOD and MG Overlays
5th Story
HQP Overlay
6th Story
30 H-1 Hospital.tif
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The H Zone serves as a place for the continued operation of the Morristown Medical Center. Given the cluster of buildings that occupies this site, the use of a floor area ratio serves to regulate the intensity of development instead of a broad reliance on height, yard and coverage controls.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The H Zone houses the Morristown Medical Center. It is composed of a cluster of medical buildings and related accessory structures. Buildings are permitted up to five stories, and taller buildings are permitted with larger setbacks. Circulation through this zone is provided through private streets and cartways.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Uses.
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
C: Conditional
Use
H
Hospital
P
Medical laboratories, rehabilitation centers, etc.
P
Nursing home
P
Parking garage
P
b. 
Floor area ratio.
1. 
Maximum FAR: 1.07.
2. 
Floor area of parking garages shall be excluded from calculations of FAR in the H District.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 H-1 Lot Stds.tif
H Standards
a.
Lot width (minimum)
500 feet
b.
Lot depth (minimum)
500 feet
c.
Lot size (minimum)
300,000 square feet
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 H Bldg Placement.tif
H Standards
Minimum
a.
Setbacks
(1)
Build-to-line (minimum)
85 feet plus 1 additional foot for every foot building exceeds maximum building height
(2)
Side yard (one) (minimum)
40 feet
(3)
Side yard (both) (minimum)
90 feet
(4)
Rear yard (minimum)
55 feet plus 1 additional foot for every foot building exceeds maximum building height
b.
Coverage
(1)
Building coverage (maximum)
48.71%
(2)
Improved coverage (maximum)
80%
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 H Bldg Placement.tif
Height
Minimum
Maximum
a.
Principal structure
5 stories/55 feet
b.
Accessory structure(s)
15 feet
c.
Finished ground floor
At grade level
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Standard
Code Reference
Parking standards
§ 30-215
Prohibited uses
§ 30-218
Frontage standards
Article 3C
Signage standards
Article 4I
Accessory structures
Article 3E
Site design standards
Article 4A
30 H-1 Hospital.tif
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The H-1 Zone serves as the zone for the Atlantic Rehabilitation Center.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The H-1 Zone houses the Atlantic Rehabilitation Center. It is composed of a principal tower building and other outlying buildings. Buildings are permitted up to three stories.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
a. 
Uses
Key:
P: Permitted
NP: Not permitted
C: Conditional
Use
H-1
a.
Hospital
P
b.
Medical laboratories, rehabilitation centers, etc.
P
c.
Nursing home
P
d.
Parking garage
P
b. 
Floor area ratio.
Floor Area Ratio
a.
Maximum FAR
1.0
Floor area of parking garages shall be excluded from calculations of FAR in the H-1 District.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 H-1 Lot Stds.tif
H-1 Standards
a.
Lot width (minimum)
500 feet
b.
Lot depth (minimum)
500 feet
c.
Lot size (minimum)
400,000 feet
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 H-1 Bldg Placement.tif
H-1 Standards
Minimum
a.
Setbacks
(1)
Build-to-line (minimum)
85 feet plus 1 additional foot for every foot building exceeds maximum building height
(2)
Side yard (one) (minimum)
40 feet
(3)
Side yard (both) (minimum)
90 feet
(4)
Rear yard (minimum)
55 feet plus 1 additional foot for every foot building exceeds maximum building height
Note: There shall be a seventy-five-foot buffer on all sides of the property per Subsection 30-220.2.
b.
Coverage
(1)
Building coverage (maximum)
20%
(2)
Improved coverage (maximum)
50%
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
30 H-1 Bldg Form.tif
Height
Minimum
Maximum
a.
Principal structure
3 stories/35 feet
b.
Accessory structure(s)
15 feet
c.
Finished ground floor
At grade level
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Standard
Code Reference
Parking standards
§ 30-215
Prohibited uses
§ 30-218
Frontage standards
Article 3C
Signage standards
Article 4I
Accessory structures
Article 3E
Site design standards
Article 4A
30 PP-PPU Public Purpose.tif
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
The PP (Public Purpose) and PPU (Public Purpose Undevelopable) Districts consist of government-owned (municipal, county, state and federal but not Morristown Parking Authority) land, including parks, buildings and other facilities.
[Ord. No. O-25-2018, 7-12-2018; amended 8-8-2023 by Ord. No. O-11-2023]
Use
PP
PPU
All government-owned (municipal, county, state and federal but not Morristown Parking Authority) land, including parks, buildings and other facilities which can be otherwise developed
Permitted
Not permitted
All government-owned (municipal, county, state and federal but not Morristown Parking Authority) land, including parks, buildings and other facilities which cannot be otherwise developed
Not permitted
Permitted