Building FAQs
General FAQs
The permit cost is not calculated until it is reviewed and approved.
To ensure that work was done as per code. This is important for the homeowner's safety and final payments should not be made to contractors. Until final inspections have passed. It is also a requirement that all permits be closed out in order to sell your home.
Subcodes have up to 20 days to review permit applications after Zoning approval, if required.
No. Inspections can only be made by calling the Building Department at 973-857-4835
Permit applications can be mailed in and if a check is included and a self- addressed stamped envelope, the permit can be mailed back.
What is required to be at work site during an inspection?
The rough Plumbing, Electric, and Fire must first pass inspection.
Two sets of signed and sealed drawings are required for a permit application.
No, unless one was submitted for construction work.
A permit is not required for roof shingle replace only (one and two family) but sheathing repair or replacement requires a permit.
The minimum is 30-38 inches and maximum is 38. Four or more steps require a railing. Graspable handrails are required.
Not if replacing exact configuration. Changing size and configuration requires a permit.
7: AM TO 6:00 PM Mon. thru Fri. Sat 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM Work on Sunday is not permitted.
Monetary penalties per the UCC will apply- N.J.A.C. 5:23-2.31
It is a joint responsibility between the owner and the contractor.
The Uniform Construction Code allows a homeowner to prepare his or her own plans for construction, addition, reconstruction, alteration, renovation, or repair on a single-family residence intended to be used exclusively as his/her primary residence. For all other plans including other residential uses and all non-residential work, the seal and signature of the registered architect or licensed engineer who prepared the plans shall be affixed to each sheet of each copy of the plans submitted. A contractor, property owner, or tenant cannot prepare plans for rental property, multiple-family dwelling unit, or any non-residential use, including commercial businesses. Only a New Jersey licensed design professional (architect or engineer) may prepare plans for these uses.
Exception: For single-family homes or other Class III structures, a New Jersey licensed Electrician or New Jersey Master Plumber may design and submit plans for electrical and plumbing installations.
Homeowners are allowed to do all of their own construction if the work site is a single-family, owner-occupied, detached residence. Homeowners are held to the same standard of work as licensed contractors. The same permits are required regardless of who is doing the work. If the residence is a multiple-family dwelling or owned with the intent to sell, all work must be conducted by licensed contractors. Under no circumstances are unlicensed contractors allowed to do any residential construction. All commercial construction must be done by licensed electricians and plumbers.
The State of New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs regulates contractors.
Their website is: https://www.njcomsumeraffairs.gov/
No. You are allowed to make emergency repairs and get a permit as soon as possible, but not more than 72 hours later. If an emergency such as this does occur, you must contact the Building Department and we will put you on our Emergency Work List. Please see our Emergency Repairs handout for more information.