Opening a business in town? Here is information to help you through the process…
Guidelines for Existing Buildings
- Proposed Use—Learn if the proposed use is allowed. (See Land use ordinance for lists of permitted uses.)
- Change in Use - If there is to be a change in use, do existing parking and loading requirements change? (See Land use Ordinance Section 16-88(e)). Must submit parking calculations with application.
- Variance Approvals - If the proposed use is not allowed or parking requirements can not be met, you will be required to obtain the appropriate variances from the Zoning Board of Adjustment or Planning Board. In the event a variance is required, we recommend that you consult with a land use attorney before submitting an application.
Guidelines for New Construction and Additions
- Proposed Use - Learn if the proposed use is allowed.
- Site Plan Approval - Site Plan Approval is required for all commercial, non-residential buildings whether variances are needed or not. The Planning Board or the Zoning Board of Adjustment reviews proposed developments for compliance regarding: zoning, lighting, landscaping, parking, trash storage, and signage.
- General Zoning Requirements - Building must conform to requirements, e.g.: use, setbacks, lot coverage, building coverage, building height, floor area ratio. Any unfulfilled requirements need a variance approval from the Zoning Board of Adjustment or Planning Board.
- Parking, Building Addition - An addition will probably require more parking. If the required number of parking spaces is not provided, a variance is needed. (See Land Use Ordinance Section 16-88(e)).
- Parking, New Building - A new building requires on-site parking and loading based on proposed uses. If requirements are not met, variances will be needed. (See Land Use Ordinance Section).
- Environmental Issues - The Site Plan Approval process may require permits from the N.J. Department of Environmental Protection & Energy (DEPE).
- State/County Roads - If a project is on a State/County road, DOT or the County approval may be required as part of the Site Plan Approval process.
- Fire-Rated Assemblies - The UCC Code may require fire-rated separation walls between adjacent tenants. The Code may also require fire separation walls within your own space.
- Fire Alarms and Sprinkler Systems/Fire Extinguishers - All construction must meet requirements of NJ Uniform Construction Code (UCC). All applications must be prepared and sealed (2 sets) by all appropriate licensed contractors. Fire extinguishers are required, and their locations approved by the Fire Sub-Code Official. Criteria such as use and size determine if spaces must be provided with fire alarms or sprinkler systems. This includes basements.
Other Necessary Approvals
- All proposed food service establishments must meet State and Local Health Department. Plan review is required.
- Flood Plains, Retaining walls, etc. must be reviewed and approved by the Engineering Department.
- Development Fees are required prior to approvals.
- Signage - All signage must meet zoning code requirements. A construction permit is required for all signage. Review and approval by the Architectural Review Board of the BID is required for all signage.
- ***Application - Make sure you have completed the entire application package. Pay close attention to the checklist provided in the package
Application Checklist:
□ Two (2) sets of plans, sealed by NJ registered Architect.
□ Construction Permit Application form sealed by all appropriate Licensed Contractors.
□ Site Survey with addition/new building drawn to scale.
□ Owners authorization if applicant is not owner.
□ Completed Development Fee Calculation Form.
□ Checks for all required application fees.