ADU Rules in Toms River, New Jersey

The previous version of this page contained a serious source error: it described P.L. 2021, c.182 as a New Jersey accessory dwelling unit law.

That is incorrect. P.L. 2021, c.182 concerns lead-based-paint inspections in rental housing.

Current State-Law Status

New Jersey legislators have continued to consider statewide ADU legislation, including bills introduced in the 2026 legislative session.

A pending bill is not the same as enacted law.

For that reason, this page does not claim that New Jersey currently requires Toms River to allow ADUs statewide.

Toms River Local Rule

The current official sources reviewed for this audit did not provide enough evidence for a simple township-wide Yes or No ADU statement.

Before planning a second dwelling:

1. identify the parcel's zoning district;
2. check the current Toms River Township Code;
3. submit the zoning question to Township Zoning; and
4. determine whether Pinelands, CAFRA, floodplain, or other overlays apply.

Zoning Permit Review

Toms River's current Zoning FAQ states that zoning review can take up to 10 business days for an initial approval or denial.

If an application is denied and resubmitted, the review clock restarts and another review may take up to 10 business days.

This is a zoning-review service standard, not proof that an ADU use is permitted.

Official Sources

Toms River Planning & Zoning

Toms River Zoning FAQ

Toms River Township Code

Disclaimer: Confirm ADU eligibility directly with Township Zoning before designing or purchasing a property based on an ADU assumption.