Cal. Civ. Code § 5:10-17.3
Limitations on storage space
Operative Text
(a) Storage in common areas shall not cover more than 80 percent of the overall floor area and not more than 60 percent of the cubic content of the storage area and shall be arranged so that there will be maintained at all times aisles at least three feet in width. (b) Storage shall not be permitted in attic spaces in garden apartments unless such spaces are designed for such purposes.
Under N.J.A.C. § 5:10-17.3, storage placed in common areas of residential buildings is subject to specific space limits: it may not occupy more than 80 percent of the total floor area or more than 60 percent of the cubic (three-dimensional) volume of the storage area, and clear aisles of at least three feet wide must be kept open at all times. Additionally, attic spaces in garden apartment buildings cannot be used for storage unless those spaces were specifically designed for that purpose.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under N.J.A.C. § 5:10-17.3 generally ensure that any common-area storage is laid out so that floor coverage stays within the 80 percent threshold, volumetric fill does not exceed 60 percent, and unobstructed three-foot aisles are maintained continuously. For garden apartment buildings, compliant operators verify that attic spaces are architecturally designed for storage before allowing any items to be kept there. Routine inspections of storage areas help confirm that these spatial requirements remain satisfied as tenant use of the space changes over time.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under N.J.A.C. § 5:10-17.3, tenants in residential buildings have an interest in common storage areas being kept within defined limits — no more than 80 percent of floor area and 60 percent of cubic space used, with clear three-foot aisles maintained at all times. If you live in a garden apartment and notice items being stored in an attic space that does not appear designed for that use, this provision may be relevant to a housing code concern. Tenants who believe these standards are not being met can consider contacting their local municipal housing or code enforcement office, or reaching out to a tenant-rights organization for general guidance.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 3, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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