ADU Laws in New Jersey (2026)
New Jersey state ADU law details, key provisions, preemption status, and recent legislative changes for accessory dwelling units.
Law Name
State ADU Law
Preempts Local Ordinances
No — local rules may be stricter
Has State Law
Yes
Key Provisions
New Jersey does not have a comprehensive statewide ADU preemption law as of 2026
ADU regulation is left to local municipalities under the New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL)
Some NJ municipalities permit ADUs — provisions vary widely across the state's 564 municipalities
New Jersey's Council on Affordable Housing (COAH) and Fair Share housing obligations have historically pushed municipalities to allow higher-density housing including some ADU provisions
NJ has been considering ADU reform legislation but comprehensive statewide by-right mandate had not passed as of 2026
New Jersey State Planning Commission provides guidance on housing development including secondary dwellings
Legislative History
2024 — Various NJ ADU Bills (proposed)
New Jersey Legislature considered several bills to require municipalities to allow ADUs by right, but a comprehensive statewide ADU preemption law had not been enacted as of 2026. NJ's complex home-rule tradition and 564 municipalities create challenges for statewide preemption.
Official Sources
Source: New Jersey State ADU Law. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source