Building FAQs

Yes, contact the Building Department for details at 201-652-5300 x232.

Yes. A generator cannot encroach into any setback (side, front or rear) and should when possible be placed in the rear yard behind the house. There are no restrictions on Zoning for a generator to be placed up against a house or how far away from the house to be placed – follow the requirements as per the manufacturer. An Electric & Plumbing Permit is required, a site survey with the location of the generator & SPEC sheet. Inspections are required. Please include in your application for a permit the Manufacturer Installation Instructions. Supply a gas pipe isometric drawing of the proposed gas pipe. Show pipe size & type, total length and total loads in BTU’s that complies with IRC 2009 G2412.1 and G2412.8 and sized as per G2413 for gas pipe sizing.

All sheds require a zoning review application ($50) regardless of size and must be accompanied by the property survey. For sheds measuring 100 sq. ft. or less, a zoning permit will be issued ($50). Sheds over 100 sq. ft. require a building permit; sheds 200 sq. ft. or more require footings. The maximum height depends on the size of the shed. Applications are available on our forms page.

A building permit is required if the siding or roofing work represents 25% or more coverage.

Zoning approval is required for all fences, including the replacement of existing fences. Upon approval, a zoning permit is $50 for privacy fences. A fence for enclosing a pool requires a building permit and must comply with the 2009 International Residential Code (IRC)

Driveways require a zoning review and must be accompanied by the property survey. If approved, a zoning permit will be issued. The ordinance allows a maximum
width of twenty (20) feet, which includes the apron. Note: If the curb is to be cut for widening the apron, the DPW must be notified prior to pouring concrete.

The State of New Jersey Division of Community Affairs allows twenty (20) business days for the review of permit applications. However, permits are normally issued in a matter of days for roofing, siding, electrical upgrades, water heaters, oil tank removals/installations, bath or kitchen direct replacements, real-estate sign permits and minor interior alterations. For more complex projects involving new construction, plan review begins only after prior approvals have been secured. Prior approvals typically involve soil movement, drainage calculations, and require a topographical survey. Other prior approvals may involve the Bergen County Utility Authority, Bergen County Soil Conservation District, tree management, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and COAH. It is recommended that a complete permit application be submitted as early as possible to avoid undue delays in the plan review process.

There are two options. In most cases, homeowners may act as their own general contractor by putting their name on the permit. However, depending on the scope of the project, there is some risk when you absorb liability. We strongly recommend that you consider hiring a professional contractor, as they are responsible for resolving any problems that may arise as it relates to the work being performed. Home improvement contractors must be licensed by the State of New Jersey's Division of Consumer Affairs. Note: If the homeowner is not doing his/her own electrical or plumbing work, the hired contractor must be licensed by the State of New Jersey.

All pools require initial zoning approval to ensure compliance with setbacks and lot coverage requirements. Once approved, a permit is required for the installation, electrical and plumbing work. For in-ground pools, the application process involves prior approvals from the borough engineer for soil and drainage calculations, and requires a topographical survey. Three sets of sealed construction plans must accompany the application. A complete list of requirements is available by calling the Building Department.

We recommend that the homeowner (or agent) visit the Building Department 2-3 weeks before the closing date to apply for a COC. The fee is $50 and covers the inspection of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and sump pumps where applicable. A portable fire extinguisher is required within 10 feet of the kitchen (specifications are available in the Building Department). Inspections are by appointment and conducted Monday- Friday, between 10 AM-12 PM.

Note: Any open permits on file must be closed out with final inspections prior to issuing a COC. This may delay the process, so we recommend that you plan ahead.

Certain types of home improvements, such as painting, tiling work, flooring and carpeting do not require a permit, as it is considered minor work and does not fall
under the requirements of the Uniform Construction Code. If you are not sure if a permit is required, please don't hesitate to call the Building Department.