This department is a Class I Agency with part-time inspectors for all subcodes and oversees commercial and residential projects for plan review, permit processing and field inspections. This includes new buildings, and additions and alterations that would require building, electric, plumbing and/or fire permits.

Not all homeowners are aware that permits are required for small projects such as finished basements, raised patios, decks and toolsheds. This creates problems, especially when the property is sold and a search reveals that work was done and no permit was applied for. When in doubt about requirements for permits, please call our office for guidance. Though not a substitute for a phone call, here is a sheet that may help a homeowner or builder determine when a permit is required:

New Construction, Repairs or Replacements Requiring Permits

NEW! Track Your Construction Permit On-line!

The Prior Approval Form is now in an interactive format available on-line. Any member of the public who has a permit pending can track its review progress by typing in the permit control number. Here is the link:

http://www.savvymap.com/permit

Sheds

These setbacks apply to most outbuildings/sheds. Cluster developments are special situations. Please call the Zoning Officer (908-359-8211, extension 283) with any questions.

A shed up to 100 sq. ft. does not need a building permit but it does require a Zoning Permit. In addition to submitting the Zoning Permit Application, you need to provide a copy of your survey/or plot plan that shows where the shed is to be located on the property with the required setback to obtain this approval.

A shed 101 sq. ft. up to 200 sq. ft. needs a building permit. It must be anchored and placed on a 4” gravel bed. We have permit applications to fill out and file along with a copy of your plot plan showing where the shed is located. If the shed is pre-fab we ask for a brochure from the shed company. If it is being built 2 sets of detailed drawings must be included in the application. The drawings need to show framing details, type of materials used, etc.]

A shed larger than 200 sq. ft. also needs a building permit. You need to file a permit application with a plot plan. This size shed must have footings 36” deep beneath it and it must be anchored. As above if it is pre-fab we ask for a brochure, if it is built 2 sets of drawings must be included.

Basements

These handouts apply to most basements. These diagrams are supplemental to the text in the handouts and are intended as a usage guide only. Please call the Code Enforcement Office (908-359-8211) with any questions.

Uniform Construction Code of New Jersey

Effective January 5, 1998, the Uniform Construction Code of New Jersey introduced Subchapter #6, which is the Rehabilitation Subcode. This subcode enhances the feasibility of remodeling existing structures that do not comply with today's standards.

The following codes are currently in effect:

 

[back to top]