Zoning & Permit Instructions
BEFORE beginning any project, please carefully review these instructions.
If you are using a Contractor:
The Contractors’ Registration Act requires all home improvement contractors to be registered with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. The Construction Office cannot issue construction permits to an unregistered contractor.
STEP 1: Determine if You Require Zoning Approval / Permit
Refer to the Zoning & Permit Requirements chart to determine if your project requires zoning approval and/or a construction permit(s).
STEP 2: If a Construction Permit is Required
Before beginning any work, the homeowner or contractor applies for a permit. Permit applications require details about the construction project including who will perform the work and what, when and how the work will be done. Submit any required drawings, sketches, plans or other documentation along with the permit application. If the application is approved, appropriate permit fees must be paid before construction begins.
About the Construction Permit
The construction permit grants legal permission for construction to start. Inspections are required at each major phase of construction to certify that the work conforms to the approved plans, the appropriate code, and the permit. As construction proceeds, the applicant refers to the inspection schedule and calls the Construction Office to schedule the various inspections.
STEP 3: Completing & Submitting a Permit Application(s)
CLICK HERE to view a list of permit applications commonly used for residential construction projects. After the permit application is completed and submitted to the construction department, it is reviewed by the sub-code official who will determine if the project is in compliance with the construction codes, zoning ordinance and other municipal or state ordinances / statutes. Applications may be approved, rejected, or additional information and clarification may be requested.
STEP 4: Permit Fees
Approved & Rejected Permit Applications
If the permit application is approved, the application is processed by the office, the applicant pays the calculated permit fees and a permit is issued.
If the permit application is rejected, the applicant is notified of the reason and may opt to correct and resubmit or appeal the decision.
STEP 5
Once the permit is issued and the fee paid, you may begin the project related to your approved permit. The permit must be hung in a visible place at the project location.
STEP 6: Granting a Certificate of Occupancy / Approval
When the project is completed, the Construction Official conducts a final inspection and if all requirements are met, 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.