Construction

 

Construction Department The Construction Department is responsible for enforcing the regulations of the State Uniform Construction Code, which was established by the State of New Jersey, to insure that new construction (commercial, industrial, and residential) adheres to minimum standards of workmanship and safety. The Inspectors review structural construction, plumbing, heating and air conditioning, and electrical work prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy to insure compliance with the State Uniform Construction Code. The Borough utilizes State inspectors to perform elevator inspections. Henry Stryker III Construction Official Phone # 732-462-4903 Email Address- HSTRYKER@FREEHOLDBORO.ORG Frequently Asked Questions Where to download construction forms? Please follow link to forms...   Rental Property List Click Here   Construction Forms   http://www.state.nj.us/njbusiness/licenses/construction/forms.shtml What type of improvements require a permit? Interior work such as painting, paneling, tiling, replacement fixtures and/or cabinets do not require a permit. Replacing electrical wiring, plumbing, constructing or removing walls does require a permit. Permits are also required for decks, fences, and shed.  If I need a permit, who should I contact?  Contact the Construction Department at (732)462-4903. The staff will guide you through the permit process and requirements. If your questions are of a technical nature, you will be asked to speak with the Subcode Officials, and you will find contact information listed below.  Why is a permit necessary? Permits are required to ensure that all work being performed is in compliance with the proper codes, and being constructed in a safe manner. How do I go about obtaining a permit? First you should contact the Construction Department for a list of criteria required for each specific type of work. Once you have all of the information/paperwork required, you can complete a construction permit application. Once this process has been completed, the Construction Staff will review your permit for the proper criteria, and process for approvals. If I need a permit for certain types of improvements, does that include my basement, or adding a pool? Both basement work and a pool require a construction permit. Do I need a certificate of occupancy? A certificate of "approval" is issued on all permits/types of work once all the proper finals have been approved. A "certificate of occupancy" is issued on all new construction. Do I need a zoning permit? In the Borough certain land uses are allowed in areas where such use is appropriate. Depending on the area and the use a zoning permit may be necessary. A zoning permit is required for a new business or a business relocating to a new location. This requirement does not apply to a home based business. Do I need to retain an engineer or architect for my home improvements? The code states that a homeowner may draw their own plans. It is strongly suggested that if a homeowner is unfamiliar with the codes and construction, they have an architect or engineer draw the plans. Where do I find out about setback requirements? Please contact the Zoning/Planning Department to learn about setback requirements. What zone is my property in?  The Zoning/Planning Department can help you determine what zone your property is in. A representative can be reached at 732­ 462-4903.  How can I find out about water and sewer availability?  Contact the Freehold Borough Water & Sewer Department (732) 462-3502.  Where do I find out about septic systems?  Septic system installation and requirements are handled through the Freehold Township Health  Department. They can be reached at (732) 294-2060. How long does the Construction Department keep my permits? A permit is kept in the Construction Department archives for the life of the dwelling. How do I schedule a Construction Inspection? Please make sure that you have all necessary. information available before calling. When you are ready please call our Inspection line at (732) 462-4903.  Construction Applications The Construction Permit Application is in three parts. All three parts of the application must be completed and brought to the Construction Department for processing. When you return the application, staff will indicate the amount necessary for the processing fee. Once you complete the appropriate forms, the Construction Department will assist you in obtaining the necessary permits, and inspecting the permitted work. General Building Information If you are building, remodeling, or adding onto your house or business, it must be done in accordance with the State Uniform Construction Code and generally requires a building permit. Visit or call the Construction Department during the planning stages of your project, well before you begin construction, to make sure you are proceeding according to Code and do not need to appear before the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment. An early visit will eliminate unnecessary delays in completing your project. For example, if you are creating a non-conforming use, you will be required to apply for a variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment. You may need to survey your lot and provide copies of your plans to the Construction Department, especially if it is a large project. All completed construction permit applications must include a copy of the proposal for the project. When your plans are complete, the appropriate inspector will examine them and may ask for changes to comply with the Code. These changes may involve such things as using different building materials or using different building methods. It is important for you to know that your contractor or builder must be licensed by the State of New Jersey by December 31, 2005. Also, make sure your contractor or builder calls 1-800-­272-1000 to make sure all underground utilities are marked out before they do any digging. This will eliminate the possibility of the contractor inadvertently hitting water, electric, or cable lines and possibly knocking out service. Three working days notice in advance of digging is required. Once you have met the requirements for a construction permit and paid the applicable fee, the construction permit is issued and construction can begin. During construction you will receive routine on-site inspections to insure your project is progressing in a safe and reliable way. A final inspection is required when the job is complete. If the project is completed in accordance with Code, the Construction Official will issue a certificate of occupancy or certificate of approval. Permit Application Requirements • Deck • Fence ( Zoning Approval only unless fence protects a swimming pool ) • Shed • Siding/Roofing • Plumbing/Electrical Work • Pools • Heating/AC systems • Interior Alterations - Residential • Interior Alterations - Commercial . • Additions Residential • Additions – Commercial and Residential • New Construction - Commercial and Residential Applications may be obtained  at the Construction Department in the Municipal Building, 51 West Main Street, Freehold Borough or by calling (732) 462-4903.