Construction Office

The Uniform Construction Code is a comprehensive set of regulations that cover all aspects of new construction, repairs, renovations of existing buildings, and all of the major operating systems (i.e., electric, plumbing, HVAC) that are part of a modern structure. To give you an idea of how comprehensive the code can be, New Jersey law (NJAC 5:23-2.14) states that "it shall be unlawful to construct, enlarge, alter or demolish a structure; or change the occupancy of a building or structure requiring greater strength, exit way or sanitary provisions, or to change a different use group, or to install or alter any equipment for which provision is made or the installation of which is regulated by this chapter, or to undertake a project involving lead abatement in accordance with §5:17, without first filing an application with the construction official or the appropriate sub-code official where the construction involves only one trade or in writing and obtaining the required permit.

Construction permits are required for many home improvement projects. All structural or system changes require permits prior to work commencing and require inspections during and upon completion of the work. Examples of work requiring permits are listed below and while this list is not all-encompassing, it will give you an idea of how many areas require permits.

• Roofing
• Siding
• Electrical service
• Water heater, furnace, and/or central air conditional replacement or installation
• Kitchen and bath renovations
• Additions, pools, garages, and/or fences
• Installing, repairing, or replacing any interior finish in a one or two-family dwelling.

It is always best to call the Construction Office prior to beginning any project to determine if a permit is needed. It's only a phone call away and may prevent future project-related problems.

Applying for a Permit

An application for a permit may be obtained from the Construction Office, which is located on the second floor of the City Hall Annex. To process your application, we will need:

• A completed permit application (note: permits are not accepted, or issued, after 4 pm)
• Construction Plans

Plot Plan must include the following details:

• All existing and proposed structures on the property
• The distances to all lot lines, septic system, or sewer lines (if known)
• The location of any easements
• Engineering release, grading plan, and other documentation as requested

Along with the completed application, the applicant must submit two copies of the construction plans. These drawings may be prepared by the applicant for his/her own single-family owner-occupied dwelling, or by an architect or engineer licensed in the State of New Jersey. Because of the technical requirements of most projects, it suggested that drawings be prepared by a licensed professional. It is important to note that a building contractor is not permitted to prepare these drawings unless they are licensed as an architect or engineer in the State of New Jersey.

You can verify whether architects, engineers, plumbers, electricians, or other building-related professionals hold valid licenses and/or other state-required credentials by performing a search on the NJ Department of Community Affairs (DCA) website. For your convenience, downloadable permit applications are available on this page to help you get started. If you have construction-related questions, please contact us and we'll do our best to help you toward a successful completion of your project.