Phone: (973) 691-0900 Ext. 7302
Location: Municipal Building, 204 Flanders Drakestown Road, Budd Lake, NJ 07828

	Construction / Building Sub-Code Official: Gary Lindsay
	Building Inspector: Gary Lindsay
	Plumbing Sub-Code Official: Jim Gonroski
	Electrical Sub-Code Official: Robert Moentenich
	Fire Sub-Code Official: Fred Detoro

As with all building departments in New Jersey, our function is to insure that all construction, renovations, and repairs conform to the State of New Jersey Uniform Construction Code and New Jersey approved building codes.

What are the approved codes?

	Building: IBC 2006 NJ edition / IRC 2006 Edition
	Plumbing: National Standard Plumbing Code 2006
	Electrical: National Electric Code 2005
	Energy code: CABO Model energy Code 2006
	Fire: IBC 2006 NJ edition
	International Mechanical Code 2006
	International Fuel Gas Code 2006

When do I need a permit?

Chances are if you need to ask yourself this question, a permit is probably required. The NJ Uniform Construction Code states, "A building or structure shall not be constructed, extended, repaired, removed or altered ......" without construction permits except for ordinary repairs.

The term "structure" as used above includes: sheds, decks, homes, factories, fences (over 6 ft.) signs, etc. The term "altered" includes roofing & re-roofing, siding, and in some cases, window replacement, the installation of fireplaces and heat stoves.

Permit Request Form

 

What are not ordinary repairs and thus requires permits?

1. The cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof;
2. The removal or cutting of any structural beam or bearing support;
3. The removal or change of any required means of egress (exit way);
4. Any work affecting structure or fire safety;
5. Any work that increases the nonconformity of an existing building or structure;
6. Addition to, or alternation, replacement or relocation of: any standpipe, water supply, sewer, drainage, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping;
7. Electrical wiring, other than low voltage communication systems in one and two family dwellings;
8. Mechanical or other work affecting public health or general safety;
9. Any work undertaken for the purpose of lead or asbestos abatement.

CONSEQUENCES OF WORKING WITHOUT A REQUIRED PERMIT:

1. You may subject yourself to penalties and/or fines of up to $500./day until permits are issued.
2. You may temporarily bypass the Township Planning and Zoning departments, but if caught, before a permit can be issued you will need zoning approval, and you may need a variance or Planning Board approval. If these approvals/variances are denied, you may be required to remove the constructed improvement.
3. You might unknowingly receive substandard materials and/or workmanship from a contractor.
4. If you have an insurance claim related to any work done without permits, your carrier may not pay the claim. They often check with building departments for permits and the required inspections.

Questions?

If you have any questions concerning permit requirements, we suggest you call our staff during the planning stage at (973) 691-0900 Ext. 7302. The office is open Monday thru Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.