LBI lot sizes: what you need to know before buying or building
New construction in Holgate on a 50x75 lot with bay views
Understanding Lot Sizes on Long Beach Island
When it comes to real estate on Long Beach Island, the land beneath a home is just as valuable—if not more so—than the structure itself. Whether you're looking to build a new home, renovate an existing property, or invest in LBI real estate, understanding lot sizes and their impact on home design is key.
Why Lot Size Matters
Lot size plays a major role in determining the type of home you can build, the layout options, outdoor space, and resale value. A wider lot allows for greater flexibility in home design, while smaller or irregularly shaped lots may come with restrictions on setbacks and building coverage.
Common Lot Sizes on LBI
Long Beach Island consists of six municipalities, each with its own zoning regulations, but there are some general trends when it comes to lot sizes:
Standard Residential Lots – Many lots on LBI are at least 40 to 50 feet wide, with depths that range depending on section of town, and location of lot (corner, flag, or oceanfront). Generally speaking a lot that is 50 feet wide is ideal as this allows for comfortable home designs that maximize both indoor and outdoor living spaces.
Oversized & Corner Lots – Some areas, particularly in Loveladies and North Beach, feature larger lots (often 100×100 feet or more), which provide additional privacy and design options.
Non-Conforming Lots – Some older sections of LBI have smaller lots that don’t meet current zoning standards. In these cases, variances may be required to build or expand a home.
Key Factors That Affect Buildable Space
Even if a lot seems large, zoning regulations can impact how much of it you can actually build on. Here are a few things to consider:
Setbacks: Side yard, front yard, and rear yard setbacks limit where a house can be placed on a lot. For example, the majority of LBI require there to be 15 feet between homes.
Lot Coverage: Regulations dictate what percentage of a lot can be covered by a structure, including decks and patios. This varies by town and can influence the overall design of a home. In Long Beach Township you can cover 33.3% of the total lot square footage whereas in Beach Haven and Harvey Cedars you cannot exceed 50% of the total square footage.
Easements: Some properties have easements for utility access, walkways, or shared driveways, reducing the available building footprint.
Height Restrictions: Most towns allow for a building height between 32 and 36 feet. Oceanfront homes can typically be two feet higher than other homes on the same block to give a higher likelihood of seeing over or replenished dunes.
Choosing the Right Lot for Your Goals
When looking for a property on LBI, it’s important to think beyond just the home itself—understanding the lot size and local building regulations will help ensure that your investment meets your long-term goals. Whether you’re considering a tear-down and rebuild, a major renovation, or simply want to know your options for the future, knowing how lot size impacts your property can help you make a more informed decision.
If you're thinking about buying or building on LBI and want expert guidance, I’d be happy to help you navigate the process. Reach out anytime to discuss your goals and explore available options!
