Building Permit Information

When do I Need a Building Permit?

You must obtain a permit from the Building Department before doing the following work:

Replacing a roof, installing new siding, any addition, interior alterations, constructing a deck, enclosing a porch, installing a dishwasher, most electrical work, finishing your basement, central air conditioning, installing a swimming pool (above or below ground), new furnace, new boiler, new hot water heater, fence, fireplace, sheds, underground sprinkler system, driveways and sidewalks. 

This is a partial list, when in doubt, call the Building Department.

Can I do the Work Myself?

Carpenters do not have to be licensed in New Jersey, however, Plumbers, Electricians and Fire Alarm contractors are required to have a State License.

Homeowners of an owner-occupied single family home may do their own work. They may not have a friend, relative or neighbor do the plumbing or electrical work; the homeowner must personally do the work.
A Permit is Still Required From the Building Department.

Any other structure, including owner-occupied two family homes, require all plumbing and electrical work be performed by NJ Licensed contractors.

When do I Not Need a Permit?

For ordinary repairs and maintenance work, including exterior and interior painting (C-1 Business Zone requires a review from the Historic Preservation Commission for exterior painting). Wallpapering, installation or repair of any interior finish of less then 25% of the wall area in any room. (Paneling shall not be considered an ordinary repair and requires a permit.)

The installation of any door, window or garage door, in the same opening without altering the dimensions of the framing of the original opening. The repair of any non-structural member such as a partial railing or kitchen cabinet. The replacement or repair of any interior or exterior trim or molding.

The installation of any flooring material. In a commercial building carpeting requires a permit. The repair of existing roofing material with a like material, not exceeding 25% of the total roof area within a 12 month period.

Replacing a faucet, as long as the plumbing does not have to be rearranged.

Check With the Building Department Before You Start, to Make Sure.

Hiring A Contractor!

Ask your contractor for a reference list and check with those on the list. Most legitimate contractors do not go door to door seeking work. Check our list for when permits are required. If your contractor states that he does not need a permit and it is on the list, do not fall for his line, the penalty for working without the required permits can be as much as $500.00 per day.

The Building Department may not recommend contractors, however, we can give you three (3) names of contractors that we have not had any problems with. But, we still do not recommend them.
N.J. State Law 13:45A-16.2 States: Final Inspections are Required Before Final Payment is Made to the Contractor.

Who Takes Out the Permit, Me or the Contractor?

Either the homeowner or contractor can take out a building permit, however, this office recommends you have the contractor take care of this responsibility. Plumbing and Electrical permits, when the work is being done by a contractor, must be taken out by the contractor. Remember, only the owner occupant of a single family home may do his own plumbing and electrical work.

Remember, the purpose of construction permits are for the health, safety and welfare of the building occupants and the public.

Permit requirements are State Law and strictly enforced by the Village Building Department.

You can also help the Village and your neighbors by maintaining your property in a way that you and your neighbors can be proud of.