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Borough of East Rutherford, NJ
Bergen County
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
A. 
Words used in the present tense shall include the future; the single number shall include the plural and the plural the singular. The word "persons" includes individuals, firms, partnerships and corporations; the word "lot" includes the word "plot"; the word "building" includes the word "structure"; the word "shall" is mandatory and not discretionary; the word "zone" includes the word "district." The words "occupy" or "used" shall be considered as though followed by the words "or intended, arranged or designed to be used or occupied."
B. 
Terms not defined. Whenever a term is not defined in this chapter, it is intended to have the meaning set forth in P.L. 1975, c. 291 (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-1 et seq.), if defined by that statute. In the event of conflict between the definition in this chapter and that contained in said statute, the definition in said statute shall apply.
For the purpose of this chapter, unless the context clearly indicates a different meaning, the following words and phrases have the following construction:
ACCESSORY BUILDING
A subordinate building or structure customarily incidental to the use of the main building or structure upon the same lot, occupied or devoted exclusively to an accessory use. Where an accessory building is attached to a main building in a substantial manner by a wall or roof, such accessory building shall be considered part of the main building.
ACCESSORY USE
A use customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal use of the main building, premises or lot, such as an office of a professional person or a private garage.
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
For matters requiring Planning Board and/or Board of Adjustment action, the Zoning Enforcement Officer; or for all matters requiring action by any other agency of the Borough of East Rutherford, the Borough Clerk, unless otherwise stated or intended by this chapter.
ADULT-ONLY BOOKSTORE
Any establishment having 30% or more of its dollar volume in trade in books, magazines or other periodicals which are distinguished or characterized by their principal emphasis on matters depicting, describing or relating to nudity, sexual conduct, sexual excitement, etc., for sale to patrons therein.
ADULT-ONLY MOTION-PICTURE THEATERS
Any enclosed building or premises for use in presenting 30% or more of its program material distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on matters depicting, describing or relating to nudity, sexual conduct or sexual excitement for sale to patrons therein.
ADULT-TYPE USES
Any use which includes adult-only bookstores, adult-only motion-picture theaters, massage parlors, rap parlors, saunas, go-go bars, juice bars, dance establishments having paid dancers and any such other uses which are recognized to engage in or display acts or materials including nudity, obscene material, obscene film and related activities.
ALTERATION
As applied to a building or structure, a change or rearrangement in the supporting members or structural parts of the existing facility or an enlargement.
APARTMENT
A portion of a building consisting of a room or group of rooms used as a dwelling for a family and set apart as a separate unit from other units or portions of a building.
APPLICANT
A developer submitting an application for development.
APPLICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT
The application form and all accompanying documents required by ordinance for approval of a subdivision plat, site plan, planned development, residential cluster development, conditional use, zoning variance or direction of the issuance of a building permit.
APPROVING AUTHORITY
The Planning Board of the municipality, unless a different agency is designated by this chapter, when acting pursuant to the authority of this chapter.
AUTOMOBILE SALES LOT
Any place outside a building where two or more vehicles in operating condition are offered for sale or are displayed.
BASEMENT
An area of a building partly underground, but having at least 1/2 of its clear ceiling height above the average finished grade level at the exterior of the foundation. A basement shall be considered as a story if used for dwelling or business purposes.
BILLBOARD
A structure, including a panel, wall or fence, designed or used for the display of advertisements in public places.
BLOCK
All lots fronting on the same side of a street between and including two corner lots and bounded by any of the following or any combination thereof: streets or highways; railroad rights-of-way; park boundary lines; Borough boundary lines; or boundary lines created by ordinances. All lots fronting on a cul-de-sac shall be construed as being included in one block.
BOARDER OR ROOMER
A person not a member of a family, as defined in this chapter, who pays for the privilege of lodging.
BOARDINGHOUSE or ROOMING HOUSE
A dwelling unit in which more than three and less than 10 persons are housed or lodged for compensation with or without meals.
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
The Board established pursuant to Article II of Chapter 305, Administrative Procedures.
BOROUGH
The Borough of East Rutherford.
BUILDING
A structure having a roof supported by columns, posts, piers, walls or similar structural parts, including tents, lunch wagons, trailers, dining cars, camp cars or other structures on wheels, or having other supports, and any unroofed platform, terrace or porch having a vertical face higher than three feet above the level of the ground from which the height of the building is measured which may be used or intended to be used for the housing, enclosure or shelter of persons, animals or property of any kind.
BUILDING AREA
The total area of outside dimensions on a horizontal plane at ground level of the principal building and all accessory buildings.
BUILDING HEIGHT
The vertical distance of a structure measured from the average elevation of the finished grade surrounding the structure to the highest point of the structure, but not including the chimneys, spires, towers, equipment and similar projections; provided, however, that such projections shall not cover more than 5% of the roof and shall be shielded.
BUILDING LINE
A line formed by the intersection of a horizontal plane at average grade level and a vertical plane that coincides with the exterior surface of the building on any side. In the case of a cantilevered or projected section of a building, the vertical plane will coincide with the most projected surface. All yard requirements are measured to the building line.
BUILDING PERMIT
A permit issued by the Zoning Enforcement Official prior to the start of construction, erection or alteration of any building or other structure or part thereof and prior to the use of any lot or area of land or part thereof as in accordance with all applicable requirements of the State Uniform Construction Code and this chapter and any amendment thereof.
BUILDING, PRINCIPAL
A building in which is conducted the principal use of the lot on which such building is situated.
BULK
The volume and shape of a building or of a nonbuilding use which does not conform to one or more of the applicable bulk regulations prescribing the minimum floor area, maximum height of a building or dwelling unit, lot frontage, yards, courts, required spacing between detached buildings on the same lot and usable open space on the lot for the district in which such building or nonbuilding use is located.
CABLE TELEVISION COMPANY
A cable television company as defined pursuant to Section 3 of P.L. 1972, c. 186 (N.J.S.A. 48:5A-3).
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
A governmental acquisition of real property or major construction project.
CELLAR
An area of building partially underground, having more than 1/2 of its clear ceiling height below the average finished grade level at the exterior of the foundation.
CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
A certificate issued and enforced by the Zoning Enforcement Official, upon completion of the construction of a new building, upon a change or conversion of the structure or use of a building or change in occupancy of a multifamily, commercial or industrial use, which certifies that all requirements and regulations as provided herein and within all other applicable requirements have been complied with.
CLUB
Premises or building reserved for the exclusive use of members of an organization and their guests for civic, charitable, social or recreational purposes not conducted for gain, provided that there are not conducted any merchandising or commercial activities except as required by the membership for the purposes of such club.
COMMON FACILITIES
Includes but is not limited to facilities for the common use of two or more lots, such as roads, sidewalks, swimming pools, playgrounds, trees, greens, fairways, parking areas and utilities.
COMMON OPEN SPACE
Open space area within or related to a site designated as a development, and designed for the use and enjoyment of residents and owners of the development.
COMMUNITY RESIDENCE FOR PERSONS WITH HEAD INJURIES
A community residential facility licensed pursuant to P.L. 1977, c. 448 (N.J.S.A. 30:11B-1 et seq.), providing food, shelter, and personal guidance under such supervision as required to not more than 15 persons with head injuries who require assistance, temporarily or permanently, in order to live in the community, and shall include but not be limited to: group homes, halfway houses, supervised apartment living arrangements, and hostels. Such a residence shall not be considered a health-care facility within the meaning of the "Health Care Facilities Planning Act," P.L. 1971, c. 136 (N.J.S.A. 26:2H-1 et seq.).
COMMUNITY RESIDENCE FOR THE DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED
Any community residential facility licensed pursuant to P.L. 1977, c. 448 (N.J.S.A. 30:11B-1 et seq.) providing food, shelter and personal guidance, under such supervision as required to not more than 15 developmentally disabled or mentally ill persons, who require assistance, temporarily or permanently, in order to live in the community, and shall include, but not be limited to: group homes, halfway houses, intermediate care facilities, supervised apartment living arrangements, and hostels. Such a residence shall not be considered a health care facility within the meaning of the "Health Care Facilities Planning Act," P.L. 1971, c. 136 (N.J.S.A. 26:2H-1 et al.).
COMMUNITY SHELTER FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
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 et seq.), 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.
CONDITIONAL USE
A use permitted in a particular zoning district only upon a 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 pursuant to this chapter, as amended and supplemented.
CONFORMING BUILDING, LOT OR USE
A building, structure, lot or use that conforms with the regulations herein made for the district in which such building, structure, lot or use is located.
CONVENIENCE STORE
A retail establishment primarily selling food, as well as other convenience and household goods with an overall store size of less than 5,000 square feet.
[Added 10-17-2000 by Ord. No. 00-14]
CONVENTIONAL DEVELOPMENTS
Any development other than residential clusters.
CORNER LOT
A parcel of land at the junction of and fronting on two or more intersecting streets.
COVERAGE
The ratio of the total ground floor area of buildings to the total area of the lot, expressed as a percentage.
CURB LEVEL
The mean curb level as established by the Borough Engineer and affirmed by the Mayor and Council, or, in the absence of an established curb level, the mean level of the existing curb or of the lot at the street line.
DANCE ESTABLISHMENT
Any establishment or location where dancers are paid by the business enterprise or someone on their behalf.
DECK
A wooden structure constructed above ground level and open on at least three sides.
DEVELOPER
The legal or beneficial owner or owners of a lot or of any land proposed to be 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.
DEVELOPMENT
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 any structure or of any mining, excavation or landfill; and any use or change in the use of any building or other structure or land or extension of use of land for which permission may be required pursuant to this chapter.
DRAINAGE
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 means necessary for water supply, preservation or prevention or alleviation of flooding.
DRAINAGE RIGHT-OF-WAY
The land required 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 therein to safeguard the public against flood damage in accordance with Chapter 1 of Title 58 of the New Jersey Revised Statutes[1] and including lands intended as flood-control basins.
DRIVE-IN RESTAURANT
A retail business or establishment engaged in the sale of food, soft drinks, ice cream or similar confections which are prepared, packaged in paper or other types of disposable wrappers or containers and served at counters either inside or outside the confines of a building or to persons in motor vehicles so as to be intended for immediate consumption by persons either seated or standing, either within or outside the building or in motor.vehicles, except that this definition shall not include retail stores selling confections as an incidental item.
DWELLING
A structure or portion thereof that is used exclusively for human habitation. The term shall not include hotels, motels, rooming houses, hospitals or other accommodations used for transient lodging.
DWELLING, GARDEN APARTMENT
One or more two- or three-story multifamily structures including related off-street parking, open space and recreation.
DWELLING, MULTIFAMILY
A dwelling containing three or more dwelling units.
DWELLING, ONE-FAMILY
A detached dwelling, other than a stationary trailer or mobile home, containing only one dwelling unit.
DWELLING, SEMIDETACHED
A one-family dwelling attached to one other one-family dwelling by a common vertical wall, with each dwelling located on a separate lot.
DWELLING, TOWNHOUSE
A one-family dwelling in a row of at least three such dwellings in which each such dwelling has its own front and rear access to the outside, no unit is located over another, and each unit is separated from any other unit by one or more vertical, common, fire-resistant walls.
[Amended 9-16-2014 by Ord. No. 2014-06]
DWELLING, TWO-FAMILY
A building on a single lot containing two dwelling units, each of which is totally separated from the other by an unpierced ceiling and floor extending from exterior wall to exterior wall, except for a common stairwell exterior to at least one of the dwelling units.
DWELLING UNIT
One or more rooms designed, occupied or intended for occupancy as a separate living quarter, with cooking, sleeping and sanitary facilities provided within the dwelling unit for the exclusive use of a single family maintaining a household; a building or portion thereof used as a residence and having housekeeping facilities for one family as defined in this chapter.
ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE
An electronic device that delivers vapor for inhalation. Electronic cigarette shall include any refill, cartridge, and any other component of an electronic cigarette. Electronic cigarette shall not include any product approved by the Food and Drug Administration for sale as a drug or medical device.
[Added 7-15-2014 by Ord. No. 2014-14]
EROSION
The detachment and movement of soil or rock fragments by water, wind, ice and gravity.
ESSENTIAL SERVICES
The erection, construction, alteration or maintenance by public utilities or by municipal or other governmental services in any street, alley or right-of-way easement provided therefor (on an official Borough record, i.e., an approved subdivision plat, Official Map or Tax Assessment Map) of underground or overhead electrical and communication systems; gas stream or water transmission, distribution or supply systems; sewerage and other collection and disposal systems; and traffic control and fire and police protection systems, including all equipment, accessories and appurtenances in connection therewith.
FAMILY
One or more persons related by blood, marriage or legal adoption; foster or other children placed by the New Jersey Department of Institutions and Agencies or a duly incorporated child-care agency pursuant to law; and domestic employees occupying a dwelling unit and living as a single housekeeping unit; or a group of not more than three persons not necessarily related by blood, marriage or legal adoption living together as a single housekeeping unit.
FAMILY DAY-CARE HOME
The private residence of a family day-care provider 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.).
FINAL APPROVAL
The official action of the Planning Board taken on a preliminary approved major subdivision or site plan 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 this completion or approval conditioned upon the posting of such guaranties.
FINAL PLAT
The maps of a subdivision application for which final approval is sought pursuant to this chapter.
FLOOR AREA, GROSS
The sum of the areas of the several floors of a building, including attics and penthouses, as measured from the exterior faces of the walls. It does not include cellars, unenclosed porches or attics not used for human occupancy or any floor space in accessory buildings or in the main building intended and designated for the parking of motor vehicles in order to meet the parking requirements of this chapter or any such floor space intended and designed for accessory heating and ventilating equipment.
FLOOR AREA RATIO (FAR)
The sum of the area of all floors of a building or structure compared to the total area of the site.
FRONTAGE
The width of a lot measured at the street line (either existing or proposed public street occupied by the Borough) to be not less than 2/3 of the lot width as defined herein.
FRONT YARD
An open unoccupied space on the same lot with the main building, situated between the street line of the lot and the parts of the building setting back and nearest to such street line and extending to the side lines of the lot.
GARAGE, PARKING
A building or part thereof, other than a private or repair garage, used for the storage of passenger vehicles.
GARAGE, PRIVATE
A detached accessory building or portion of the main building used for the storage of motor vehicles but not for business or profit.
GARAGE, REPAIR
Any building, premises or land in which or upon which a business, maintenance, washing or servicing and storage in connection therewith of motor vehicles is conducted or rendered, but not including a motor vehicle service station as defined herein.
GARDEN-TYPE APARTMENT
A dwelling or group of dwellings on one plot and in a single ownership not more than 2 1/2 stories or more than 35 feet high designed and used solely for dwelling purposes by families occupying separate apartments or suites of rooms, not more than two families using a common entrance or hallway. Not less than 50% of the apartments in each unit must have three walls each exposed at least 75% to give cross ventilation and the remainder of the apartments in each unit must have two walls fully exposed to give through ventilation.
GASOLINE STATION
An area of land including structures thereon that is used for the retail sale and direct delivery to motor vehicles of gasoline and lubricating oil and may include facilities for lubricating, washing or otherwise servicing of vehicles where incidental to general servicing, but not to include auto body work nor welding or painting, nor the servicing in any manner of buses or of trucks of one-and-one-half-ton capacity or more, nor the washing of vehicles by conveyor-type car wash.
GOVERNING BODY
The Mayor and Council of the Borough of East Rutherford.
GRADE, FINISHED
The completed surfaces of lawns, walks and roads brought to grades as shown on approved plans relating thereto.
HABITABLE ROOM
A room or enclosed floor space arranged for living, sleeping and eating purposes.
HEIGHT OF BUILDING
The vertical distance of a structure measured from the average elevation of the finished grade surrounding the structure to the highest point of the structure.
HIGHWAY CONVENIENCE STORE
A retail establishment located along and with direct access to Route 17, primarily selling gasoline, diesel fuel and lubricating oil for direct delivery to motor vehicles, together with food and other convenience and household goods, with an overall store size of less than 6,000 square feet. No highway convenience store shall include facilities for lubricating, washing or otherwise servicing vehicles, whether or not incidental to general servicing, nor may such use include vehicle body work, welding or painting nor servicing in any manner of vehicles, buses or trucks.
[Added 12-15-2015 by Ord. No. 2015-31]
HOSPITAL
The term "hospital" shall be deemed to include a sanitarium, nursing home and any other place for the diagnosis and/or treatment of human ailments in which one or more patients remain overnight.
HOTEL or MOTEL
A facility offering transient lodging accommodations on a daily rate to the general public and providing additional services, such as restaurants, meeting rooms and recreational facilities.
HOUSE TRAILER
Any portable or mobile structure or vehicle used as a dwelling unit or for sleeping purposes whether or not such vehicle or structure is attached to a foundation.
INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX
A group of industrial establishments built on one tract that is planned, developed, owned and managed as an operating unit. The industrial establishments may be located in one or several buildings, attached or separated.
INSTITUTIONAL USES
Nonprofit public or quasi-public uses, such as churches, schools, hospitals, lodges, fraternal organizations and the like.
INTERESTED PARTY
In a criminal or quasi-criminal proceeding, any citizen of the State of New Jersey; and in the case of a civil proceeding before a municipal agency, any person, whether residing within or without the Borough, whose right to use, acquire or enjoy property is or may be affected by any action taken under this chapter, or whose rights to use, acquire or enjoy property under this chapter or any other law of the State of New Jersey or of the United States has been denied, violated or infringed by an action or a failure to act under this chapter.
JUNKYARDS
An area of land with or without buildings used primarily for or occupied for the deposit, collection or storage of used and discarded materials which, without limitation, includes wastepaper, rags, scrap metal, used building materials, used plumbing materials, machinery, vehicles or parts thereof, with or without the dismantling, and the salvage of or the sale of two or more wrecked or discarded vehicles. The keeping of any unlicensed motor vehicle in a residential zone in the Borough of East Rutherford for one month or more and in any other zone in the Borough of East Rutherford for three months or more, unless said unlicensed motor vehicle is kept in a completely enclosed garage, shall be deemed as conducting a junkyard.
KENNEL
A structure or use where more than three dogs of more than six months of age are housed at one time for the purpose of sale, boarding, breeding, treatment or hospitalization, except a pet shop.
KNOWINGLY
Having knowledge of the character content of the material or film described in the regulated uses ordinance; or having failed to engage in a reasonable inspection which would disclose its character and content.
LAND USE PLAN ELEMENT
A component of the Master Plan taking into account any other Master Plan elements and natural conditions; showing the existing and proposed location, extent and intensity of development of land to be used in the future for various public and private purposes; and including a statement of the standards of population density and development intensity recommended for the Borough.
LOADING SPACE
Any mandatory off-street space required for the loading or unloading of goods with dimensions as required in Ordinance No. 96-02 and having direct usable access to a street and/or alley, except that where one such loading space has been provided, any additional loading space lying alongside, contiguous to and not separated from such first loading space need not be wider than 12 feet.
LOCAL UTILITY
Any sewerage authority created pursuant to the Sewerage Authorities Law, P.L. 1946, c. 138 (N.J.S.A. 40:14A-1 et seq.); any utilities authority created pursuant to the Municipal and County Utilities Authorities Law, P.L. 1957, c. 183 (N.J.S.A. 40:14B-1 et seq.); or any utility authority, commission, special district or other operate entity not regulated by the Board of Regulatory Commissions under Title 48 of the Revised Statutes that provides gas, electricity, heat, power, water or sewer service to a municipality or the residents thereof.
LOT
A designated parcel, portion, tract or area of land, exclusive of any adjoining street, established by the latest official record (Borough Tax Map or approved subdivision plat), separated from other parcels, tracts, areas or portions, to be used, sold, leased, developed or built upon as a unit.
LOT AREA
The total square unit area contained within the lot lines.
LOT, CORNER
A lot at the junction of and abutting on two or more intersecting streets when the interior angle of intersection does not exceed 135º.
LOT DEPTH
The shortest distance between the front lot line and a line drawn parallel to the front lot line through the midpoint of the rear lot line.
LOT, INTERIOR
A lot other than a corner lot.
LOT LINE
Any line forming a portion of the exterior boundary of a lot and is the same line for that portion of a lot abutting a street.
LOT LINE, FRONT
The right-of-way line of the street on which a lot fronts or abuts. The front lot line of all corner lots shall be the shorter of the two abutting street right-of-way lines.
LOT LINE, REAR
A lot line other than another front line on another street which is both opposite the front lot line and is the farthest rear boundary line from the street.
LOT LINE, SIDE
Any lot line not a front line or a rear lot line, including a lot line of an offset portion of a lot which may be the rear lot line of an adjacent lot.
LOT, THROUGH
A lot abutting on two parallel or approximately parallel streets.
LOT WIDTH
The width of the lot measured at right angles to its depth at the required setback line.
MAINTENANCE GUARANTY
Any security, which may be accepted by the Borough for the maintenance of any improvements required by this chapter, including but not limited to surety bonds, letters of credit under circumstances specified in Section 16 of P.L. 1991, c. 256 (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-53.5), and cash.
MAJOR SUBDIVISION
All subdivisions not classified as minor subdivisions.
MARINA
An establishment which provides dock slips or land storage areas for two or more boats, where such boats may be sold, rented or repaired and where gasoline, ice and incidental supplies for such boats may be provided.
MASSAGE PARLOR
Any establishment primarily engaged in the business of providing massage services.
MASTER PLAN
A composite of one or more written or graphic proposals for the development of the municipality as set forth in and adopted pursuant to P.L. 1975, c. 291, N.J.S.A. 40:55D-1 et seq.
MINOR SUBDIVISION
Any subdivision containing not more than three lots, provided that such subdivision does not involve a planned development, any new street or the extension of any off-tract improvements the cost of which is to be prorated pursuant to Section 30 of P.L. 1975, c. 291 (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-42).
MUNICIPAL AGENCY
The Planning Board, the Board of Adjustment or the Mayor and Council of the Borough of East Rutherford.
NONCONFORMING BUILDING OR STRUCTURE
A building or structure which, by its design, size, dimension or location upon a lot, does not conform to the requirements of this chapter for the zone in which it is located.
NONCONFORMING LOT
A lot, the area, dimension or location of which was lawful prior to the adoption, revision or amendment of this chapter, but fails to conform to the requirements of the zone in which it is located by reason of such adoption, revision or amendment.
NOXIOUS GAS
A poisonous gas or vapor of sufficient concentration to be injurious or dangerous to plant or animal health or life.
NURSERY SCHOOL
A school operated on a regular basis designed to provide daytime care or instruction for two or more children too young to enter public school.
OFFICE
A place for the transaction of business where reports are prepared, records kept and service rendered, but where no retail sales are offered and where no manufacturing, assembly or fabricating takes place.
OFFICIAL MAP
A map adopted by ordinance of the governing body, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-32 through 40:55D-36, showing the location and width of streets and drainage rights-of-way and the location and extent of public parks and playgrounds, whether existing or proposed.
OFF-SITE
Located outside the lot lines of the lot in question, but within the property (of which the lot is part) which is the subject of a development application or contiguous portion of a street or right-of-way.
OFF-TRACT
Not located on the property which is the subject of a development application or contiguous portion of a street or right-of-way.
OFF-TRACT IMPROVEMENT
An improvement which is not located on the property which is the subject of an application for development nor on a contiguous portion of a street or right-of-way and includes any of the following:
A. 
All improvements of the types required for on-tract installation, where the need for the provision of such improvements off-tract is, in whole or in part, made necessary by the proposed application of the applicant and where the making of such improvements will confer a benefit upon the applicant's lands which are the subject of the application.
B. 
Any improvement or facility, the installation of which is required in the public interest and the public need for which would not arise but for the improvement of the lands which are the subject of the applicant's application and the installation of which would confer a benefit upon the applicant's lands which are the subject of the application. In addition, the improvements required to maintain a safe flow of vehicular and pedestrian traffic are specifically declared to be necessary in the public interest.
C. 
Installation of new improvements and extensions and modifications of existing improvements.
ON-SITE
Located on the lot in question.
ON-SITE IMPROVEMENT
Any improvement, the installation of which may be required as part of an application for development and which is to be located on the property which is the subject of an application for development or on a contiguous street or right-of-way.
ON-TRACT
Located on the property which is the subject of a development application or on a contiguous portion of a street or right-of-way.
OPEN SPACE
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 areas 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.
OUTDOOR STORAGE
The keeping overnight of any item not a structure, including any unlicensed and unregistered motor vehicles, which is not in a completely enclosed building, except the following:
A. 
The keeping of motor vehicles with license plates and in operating condition as an accessory to a residence.
B. 
As an accessory use to a one- or two-family dwelling only, toys, bicycles, garden equipment and similar customary appurtenances of residential living.
C. 
As an accessory use to a residence, or in a permitted marina or boatyard, boats and similar waterborne vehicles.
PARKING AREA
An open area, other than a street or other public way, used for the parking of motor vehicles and available for public use, whether for a fee or as a service or privilege for clients, customers, suppliers or residents.
PARKING SETBACK
The distance from the property to any vehicle or parking space for a vehicle, measured at right angles to the property line. The front, interior side, corner side and rear parking setbacks shall be measured from the front interior side, corner side and rear lot lines, respectively.
PARKING SPACE
An accommodation for the off-street parking of a motor vehicle, which space shall have an area and dimensions as required in Ordinance with adequate provision for ingress and egress.
PATIO
A level, landscaped and/or surfaced area directly adjacent to a principal building at or within 18 inches of the finished grade and not covered by a permanent roof.
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Provisions of this chapter regulating noise, vibration, radiation, electrical interference, noxious odors, toxic substances, explosive and inflammable materials, smoke and airborne particles, waste discharge, buffer screening of unsightly conditions and such other matters as may be necessary to achieve the purposes of this chapter.
PERMITTED USE
Any use of land or buildings as permitted by this chapter.
PERSON WITH HEAD INJURY
A person who has sustained an injury, illness or temporary or permanent physiobiological decrease of mental, cognitive, behavioral, social or physical functioning which causes partial or total disability.
PLACE OF PUBLIC ASSEMBLY
A meeting hall, club house, auditorium, church, synagogue or other structure or portion of a structure used at regular or periodic intervals as a gathering place for 25 or more persons for purposes of conference, deliberation, worship, entertainment, recreation or education, except instruction of pupils of high-school age or younger.
PLANNING BOARD
The Municipal Planning Board established pursuant to Article I of Chapter 305, Administrative Procedures.
PLAT
A map or maps of a subdivision or site plan.
PRELIMINARY APPROVAL
The conferral of certain rights pursuant to Article III of Chapter 327, Land Subdivision and Site Plan Review, prior to final approval after specific elements of a development plan have been agreed upon by the Planning Board.
PRELIMINARY FLOOR PLANS AND ELEVATIONS
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.
PRELIMINARY PLAT OR SITE PLAN
The preliminary map indicating the proposed layout of a subdivision or site plan which is submitted to the Borough Clerk for Planning Board consideration and preliminary approval.
PREMISES
The lot, and any structures which may be accepted by a municipality, including but not limited to surety bonds, letters of credit under the circumstances specified in Section 16 of P.L. 1991, c. 256 (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-53.5) and cash.
PRINCIPAL BUILDING OR USE
The primary or predominant purpose of use for which a lot is used or a building or buildings on a lot are occupied.
PROFESSIONAL OFFICE
The office of a member of a recognized profession. A professional office, when conducted in a residential zone, shall be incident to the use of the dwelling for dwelling purposes, shall be conducted by a member of the immediate family residing on the premises and entirely within the residential building. Such professional use shall in no way change the character of the dwelling. Only the following specified professions shall be permitted: physician, dentist, attorney, city planner, professional engineer, architect, artist, author, optometrist, physiologist, psychiatrist and teacher (with musical instruments being limited to a single pupil at a time). All other uses are expressly prohibited. The following use criteria shall be complied with:
A. 
Such uses shall be limited to the first-floor area only.
B. 
Nonresidence employees or associates shall not exceed two in number.
C. 
On-site parking shall be provided for each employee and a minimum of two spaces shall be provided for clients.
PUBLIC AREAS
Public parks, playgrounds, trails, paths and other recreational areas, other public open space, scenic and historic sights and sites for schools and other public buildings and structures.
PUBLIC OPEN SPACE
An open space area conveyed or otherwise dedicated to a municipality, municipal agency, Board of Education, state or county agency or other public body for recreational or conservational uses.
PUBLIC USE
Any municipal, county, state, federal or other governmental use.
QUORUM
The majority of the full authorized membership of a municipal agency.
RAP PARLOR
An establishment primarily in the business of providing nonprofessional conversation or similar services for adults.
RESIDENTIAL DENSITY
The number of dwelling units per gross acre of residential land area, including streets, easements and open space portions of a development.
RESTAURANT
An establishment serving food for consumption within the building in which the food is prepared.
RESUBDIVISION
A. 
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
B. 
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 existing lots by deed or other instrument.
RETAIL ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE STORE
A retail store devoted primarily to the sale of electronic cigarettes, and in which the sale of other products is merely incidental. The sale of such other products shall be considered incidental if such sales generate less than 50% of the total annual gross sales.
[Added 7-15-2014 by Ord. No. 2014-14]
RETAIL STORE
A building in which any article excluding automotive vehicles and building materials is offered for sale at retail.
RIGHT-OF-WAY
The total width and length of the course of property along a street, watercourse, utility alignment or other way and within which all improvements and right of access are confined.
SAUNA
An establishment primarily in the business of providing:
A. 
A steam bath; and
B. 
Massage services.
SCHOOL
A school or college giving regular instruction at least five days a week for a normal school year; but not including:
A. 
A private school or private college giving special or limited instruction, such as a business, art, music, handicrafts, dancing or riding school;
B. 
A school for mental defective; or
C. 
A nursery school.
SEDIMENTATION
The deposit of soil that has been transported from its site of origin by water, ice, wind, gravity or other natural means as a product of erosion.
SELF-SERVICE STORAGE FACILITY
A building, group of buildings or other facility having compartments, rooms, spaces, containers or other type of units that are individually leased, rented, sold or otherwise contracted for by customers for the storage of personal or business goods or property, and where the facility owner/operator has limited access to the units. For purposes of this chapter, "self-service storage facility" shall be considered synonymous with self-storage warehouse, self-storage facility, mini-warehouse or mini-storage.
[Added 12-15-2015 by Ord. No. 2015-31]
SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT, BUSINESS
An establishment primarily engaged in rendering nonrepair services such as advertising, building cleaning or equipment rental to business enterprises on a fee or contract basis.
SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT, PERSONAL AND HOUSEHOLD
A business occupying less than 2,000 square feet of floor area, conducted to render either a personal service, such as hair cutting, shoe repair or dry cleaning, but not including mortuary services; or a household service, such as insect extermination or the repair of furniture, small household appliances and television sets; but not including the repair on the premises of furnaces, refrigerators, air conditioners and other articles of similar bulk and weight and not including any business which uses a truck with rated capacity of over 3/4 ton in the provision of its services.
SETBACK
The setback of a building from a particular lot line is the horizontal distance from such lot line to the part of the building nearest such lot line.
SHOPPING CENTER
One or more buildings or parts thereof designed as a unit, to be occupied by one or more separate business enterprises for the conduct of a business and conducted as an integrated and cohesively planned area development.
SIGN
All definitions pertaining to signs are found in Article VII, § 389-37.
SINGLE OWNERSHIP
Ownership by one person or by two or more persons, whether jointly, as tenants by the entirety or as tenants in common of a separate parcel of real property not adjacent to land in the same ownership.
SITE PLAN
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 location of all existing and waterways; the location of all existing and proposed buildings, streets, 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 to make an informed determination pursuant to this chapter.
SITE PLAN REVIEW
The examination of specific development plans for a lot. Whenever the term "site plan approval" is used in this chapter, it shall be understood to mean review and approval by the Planning Board or Board of Adjustment, as appropriate, pursuant to the provisions of Article I.
SOLAR PANEL
An elevated panel or plate, or a canopy or array thereof, that captures and converts solar radiation to produce power, and includes flat plate, focusing solar collectors, or photovoltaic solar cells and excludes the base or foundation of the panel, plate, canopy, or array.
[Added 8-16-2011 by Ord. No. 2011-11]
STORY
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 and including those basements used for the principal use.
STREET
Any street, avenue, boulevard, road, parkway, viaduct, drive or other way which is an existing state, county or municipal roadway; which is shown upon a plat heretofore approved pursuant to law; 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 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 area and other areas within the street lines.
STREET LINE
That line determining the limit of the street or highway right of the public, either existing or contemplated. Where a definite right-of-way width has not been established, the street line shall be assumed to be a point 25 feet from the center line of the existing street.
STRUCTURAL ALTERATION
Any change in or addition to the supporting members of a structure.
STRUCTURE
Any combination of materials forming any construction, the use of which requires the location on the ground or attachment to something having location on the ground and including, among other things, display stands, platforms, pools, flagpoles, standpipes, tanks and towers of any kind. The term "structure" shall include the term "building."
SUBDIVIDER
Any individual, firm, association, syndicate, copartnership, corporation, trust or any other legal entity commencing proceedings under this chapter to effect a subdivision of land hereunder for himself or for another.
SUBDIVISION
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 subdivision within the meaning of this chapter if no new streets are created: divisions of land found by the Planning Board, or Subdivision Committee thereof appointed by the Chairman, 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; and conveyances so as to combine existing lots by deed or other instrument. The term "subdivision" shall also include the term "resubdivision."
SUBDIVISION AND SITE PLAN COMMITTEE
A Committee of at least three Planning Board members appointed by the Chairman of the Board for the purpose of classifying subdivisions in accordance with the provisions of the chapter, reviewing subdivisions and site plans and such other duties relating to land subdivision which may be conferred on this Committee by the Board.
SUPERMARKET
A retail establishment primarily selling food, as well as other convenience and household goods.
[Added 10-17-2000 by Ord. No. 00-14; amended 9-21-2010 by Ord. No. 2010-17]
SWIMMING POOL
Facilities constructed above or below ground having a depth of more than two feet and/or a water surface of 100 square feet or more and designed and maintained for swimming purposes. "Swimming pools" shall include all buildings, structures, equipment and appurtenances thereto.
SWIMMING POOL, PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL
A swimming pool located as an accessory use to a residence for use by members of the residence and guests.
USE
The principal purpose for which a lot or the principal building thereon is designed, occupied, maintained or intended to be used.
USE, PRINCIPAL
The primary purpose for which a lot or a principal building is used. Only one principal use is permitted on any lot containing a dwelling unit. If any building or lot contains two or more separate business or other enterprises, the building or lot shall be considered to have two or more principal uses.
USE, PROHIBITED
A use not permitted within a district. Those uses not permitted by Article IV of this chapter are prohibited. The listing of certain uses as specifically prohibited reiterates the prohibition regarding those particular uses to avoid doubt or confusion.
VARIANCE
Permission to depart from the literal requirements of a zoning regulation.
VARIANCE, DIMENSIONAL
A modification of the lot, yard and building dimensions and coverage requirements set forth in this chapter on grounds of practical difficulties or under due hardship, not self-imposed. Such action shall be deemed to create a nonconforming lot or building.
VARIANCE, USE
Permission granted in particular cases and for special reasons to allow the use of a lot or building in a district restricted against such use under this chapter. Such use shall be thereafter deemed nonconforming.
YARD
A required unobstructed open space lying between a building or outer building of a group and the nearest lot line.
YARD, FRONT
An open unoccupied space, unless occupied by a use as hereinafter specifically permitted, extending across the full width of the lot and lying between the street right-of-way and the nearest line of the principal building.
YARD, REAR
A space unoccupied except by an accessory building or use as hereinafter permitted, specifically extending across the full width of the lot between the rear line of any building, other than an accessory building, and the rear lot line.
YARD, SIDE
An open unoccupied space, unless occupied by a use as hereinafter specifically permitted, on principal building and the side lot line, extending from the front yard to the rear yard.
ZONING ENFORCEMENT OFFICIAL
The individual who shall be, from time to time, charged by the Mayor and Council with the enforcement of the zoning regulations of the Borough of East Rutherford.
ZONING PERMIT
A document signed by the administrative officer which is required by ordinance 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 of the Borough Zoning Ordinance or variance therefrom duly authorized pursuant to Article II of Chapter 305, Administrative Procedures.
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Chapter 1 was repealed by L. 1945, c. 22. See now Chapter 1A.