Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, we accept credit cards, exact cash, checks, or money orders made payable to the Borough of Eatontown.

Who is responsible for obtaining the permit me or my contractor?

You, as the property owner, are responsible for all things related to your property. Some contractors will, as a service, secure the permit for you. But you must ensure that the contractor does this prior to performing any work. Doing work without a permit is subject to penalties of up to $2000.

What forms do I need for my permit?

The proper technical form (building, electric, plumbing, or fire), Two complete sets of plans, a copy of your survey (in some instances), and a folder will need to be filled out when you drop off your permit paperwork.

Other forms, depending on the type of work, may be required.

As required by state law, the Construction Inspection Department shall be self-sufficient. When State legislators enacted the Uniform Construction Code in 1977, they felt that they wanted only those who use the process to pay for the process and not to further burden the taxpayers who don't ever need to use the process.

Not always, some small projects where you are doing the work on your own in a home which is your primary residence, such as a deck, can be drawn by yourself. However, the drawings must be detailed.

For most work, yes. In the house you live in and own, you may perform your own work in all four trades (building, electric, plumbing, fire). You must personally perform the work (not a brother, friend, etc.) Falsification of legal documents subjects you to penalties up to $2000. Underground oil storage tank removal/abandonments must be licensed by New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)

Yes, our database requires a permit number to access your file.

Unfortunately, no we will usually inspect Building and Fire between the hours of 10 am and 3 pm.

Please call for the hours of the Electrical and Plumbing inspectors. There is no feasible way to narrow down a specific time.

Yes, a permit is required to replace your water heater or furnace/boiler. These appliances are probably the most dangerous things in your home.

Yes. Effective January 1, 2006, all home improvement contractors must be registered with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs. They will have to produce a registration card from the State before any permits can be issued. This is, of course, a benefit to the homeowners. For more information call Consumer Affairs at 888-656-6225. Electrical and Plumbing contractors must be licensed by the State of NJ. They do not have to be registered if they have a license from the appropriate licensing board.

An application for a permit is available from the Construction Department located on the second floor of the Municipal Building 47 Broad Street Eatontown, NJ

Hours

Monday through Friday
8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Along with the completed application, two copies of the construction plans must be submitted.

For additional information regarding your permit process, you may contact the Construction Department at 732-389-7615 or the Zoning Department at 732-389-7617.

For work such as:

• Construction of a deck or pool
• In addition to a private residence or commercial building
• Construction of a shed, garage, fence
• Install siding or roofing
• Change plumbing system or fixtures
• Install a water heater, furnace or fireplace
• Install electrical receptacles, outlets, equipment
• Repair or replace any structural item, i.e. change the size of a window
• Replace a driveway

Please note that this list is not all-inclusive. Please call the Building or Zoning Department with any questions.

You do not need a permit to:

• Replace gutters
• Paint or trim work

They are required by State law and local ordinances to protect public health, safety, and welfare.

A construction permit represents legal permission to begin a construction project. The issuance of a permit indicates plans and other documents for a project have been approved by the construction and zoning official.

Residents may contact the Housing Office and follow the appropriate procedures for filing a complaint.

A certificate will be issued when all required conditions have been met.

1. Obtain and complete an application (Visit our Building Department page).
2. Read checklist provided and prepare dwelling for inspection.
3. Contact the housing office at 732-389-7616 for an appointment.
4. Bring application and fee to the inspection site.

• Certificates of Occupancy for rentals are required prior to a tenant moving in.
• Certificates of Continued Use for sales must be performed prior to the new owners taking possession of that property.
• A new certificate is required for any change of occupant/owner.

A Certificate of Occupancy / Certificate of Continued Use requires an inspection of a dwelling and the property it sits upon to make sure it meets the requirements for the health, safety and welfare of the occupants of that dwelling.

A Certificate of Occupancy is issued for all residential rentals (apartments, houses, mobile homes, condos, co-ops, rooms) and a Certificate of Continued Use is issued for all residential sales (mobile homes, homes, condos and co-ops).