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1. Will my project increase my taxes?

It is possible depending on the project. Please review the Tax Assessment Chart to identify the tax implications of your project.

2. Why do I need a Zoning Permit?

Any work involving changes to the exterior of your property will require a zoning review. Some interior work, such as finishing a basement or the addition / subtraction of a bedroom, will also require a zoning review. In these cases, you will be asked to submit a copy of your plot plan (property survey) so that the Zoning Official can review your project for compliance with the zoning ordinance.

If you cannot comply with the zoning ordinance for any reason, you must obtain a variance from the Planning Board before your project can proceed. The Zoning Official is charged with the responsibility of enforcing the zoning ordinance but may not waive its requirements. That power is granted by law to the Planning Board.  If your project requires a variance the Zoning Official will explain the application process to you.

Remember, construction permit applications for projects which change the footprint of the building, lot coverage, or use of the space may also require a zoning approval.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

3. What is a construction permit?

A construction permit grants permission to do most kinds of work on a dwelling or other type of building. The purpose of a permit is to allow our officials to observe the progress of the work to ensure it meets code. The permit consists of six different subcode sections as needed. They are:

• Building
• Electric
• Plumbing
• Mechanical
• Fire
• Elevator

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

4. What are the consequences of working without a permit?

• You may subject yourself to penalties and/or fines of up to $2,000 a day until permits are issued.
• If you proceed with your construction project without having a required permit and you get “caught,” before a permit can be issued you will need zoning approval and you may need a variance or planning board approval. If these approvals/variances are denied, you may be required to remove the constructed improvement.
• You might unknowingly receive substandard materials and/or workmanship from a contractor.
• If you have an insurance claim related to any work done without permits, your carrier may not pay the claim. They often check with the town for permits and the required inspections.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

5. When are construction permits required?

In general, if it is more than a repair of a building, electrical, plumbing or fire element, a permit is probably required. The New Jersey Uniform Construction Code states, “A building or structure shall not be constructed, extended, repaired, removed or altered…” without construction permits except for ordinary repairs. If in doubt, a call to the office is recommended.  (973) 402-9410 Ext. 630

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

6. What does the construction permit process consist of?

If a construction permit is required, the homeowner or contractor applies for the permit. The permit application requires information about the construction project including who will perform the work and what, when and how the work will be done. Sketches, drawings, plans or other documentation of the work will have to be submitted for review, as will payment of the appropriate permit fees upon approval.

Contractor

If you are using a home improvement contractor be aware that the Contractors’ Registration Act requires all home improvement contractors to be registered with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. The Office of Construction Codes is barred from issuing construction permits to an unregistered home improvement contractor who is required to register.

Completing the Application

After the permit application is completed, it is reviewed by the subcode official who will determine if the project is in compliance with the construction codes, zoning ordinance and other municipal or state ordinances and statutes. Applications may be approved, disapproved, or additional information and clarification may be requested.

If the permit application is rejected, the applicant is notified of the reason and may opt to correct and resubmit or appeal the decision. If it is approved, it is processed by the office, the applicant pays the calculated permit fees and a permit is issued.

Construction Permit

The construction permit is the document which grants legal permission for construction to start. Each major phase of construction must be inspected to make certain the work conforms to the appropriate code, the permit, and the approved plans. As construction proceeds, the applicant refers to the inspection schedule and calls the Construction Office to schedule the various inspections.

Completing the Certificate

Upon completion and final inspection of all work, the Construction Official issues a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or a Certificate of Approval (CA), the formal document which marks the completion of the construction project. Note that the work is not considered complete until all inspections have been completed and the Construction Official issues the CO or CA.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.