How to Fill Out a New Jersey Building Permit Application

When building in New Jersey, you must apply for a state construction permit and perhaps county and local permits. All New Jersey municipalities adhere to and enforce the state's Uniform Construction Code, and some local governments impose additional building and code requirements.

Completing a New Jersey building permit application is straightforward, but do your homework first.

For example, Tenafly’s Borough Code regulates historic preservation projects, property maintenance, tree removal and aspects of construction operations such as noise and pollution.

Things You Will Need

Tip

Some cities, such as Jersey City, have websites dedicated to describing how local and state regulations intersect (see Resources). They provide local ordinances and the UCC regulations on which they’re based, as well as contact names. Permit fees vary among municipalities and are based on the nature of the project.

  1. Download and print a construction permit application packet (see Resources). This packet contains the general permit application and other application forms you may need, depending on the nature of the construction. Referred to as “Subcode Technical Sections,” these forms relate to building, electrical, plumbing, fire, framing, mechanical and elevator aspects of your job.
  2. Familiarize yourself with building permit requirements in New Jersey before filling out the application. Some types of construction don’t require permits. For example, no permit is needed for temporary greenhouses and other membrane structures, certain emergency projects, and “ordinary” and “minor” jobs as defined by statute. These jobs can include painting, plumbing, some electrical work, household siding, window and door installation, roof repairs and interior remodeling.

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