FAQs • Hamilton Township, NJ • CivicEngage

How close can I build a deck / addition to my property line?: The minimum distance required to the property line depends upon the zone in which the property is located. Please consult the zoning map and Land Development Ordinance. You may also call the Land Use Coordinator at 609-890-3680.

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Permits - Building Permits

1. Am I required to have at least one bathtub in my house?: There is no requirement to have a bathtub in your house. It is fine to only have shower stalls.

2. Do I need a permit for roofing / siding?

As of March 5, 2018 roofing and siding permits are no longer needed for single-family homes only. If the single-family house is attached to another house(s), such as a townhouse, condo, or row house, then a permit is required.

Exceptions

If the roof sheeting or plywood under the shingles needs to be fully replaced, then a permit is needed. Sometimes this is not known until the shingles are removed.

The repair or replacement of polypropylene siding does still need a building permit since it is not considered ordinary maintenance.

The cost of a building permit for a roof is $30 per $1000 cost of the job. The building permit application must be filled out by the contractor.

3. Does the Township keep copies of property surveys?

No, the township does not keep copies of property surveys or plot plans - you need to contact your surveyor. You might also check your title insurance papers to see if a survey is attached.

The only time the township may have a copy is if the house is brand new or work was done within the last couple of years.

Your deed may indicate that a survey was done and who did it. If so, you can contact that surveyor for a copy.

Otherwise, it is up to the property owner to contact a surveyor for a plot plan or survey.

4. How can I get a Building Permit Application?: You can get a Building Permit application from the Division of Inspections or by printing the Building Technical Subcode Application (PDF).

5. How close can I build a deck / addition to my property line?: The minimum distance required to the property line depends upon the zone in which the property is located. Please consult the zoning map and Land Development Ordinance. You may also call the Land Use Coordinator at 609-890-3680.

6. How high off the ground can a deck be before a railing is required?: A railing is required if a deck is 30 inches or higher off the ground.

7. How long is a Building Permit good for?: A building permit is good for 5 years from the date the permit is issued but the work must start within 6 months of getting the permit.

8. What are the fees for a Building Permit?: Building Permit fees vary depending on the type of permit.

9. Why is a plot plan / survey required for certain building work?: Surveys are needed in order to review required setbacks from property lines.

10. What Building Permits can be obtained over the counter (EZ Permit)?

Building Permits for Roofing / Siding can be obtained over the counter. If less than 25% of the roof/siding is being done, no permit is needed.

Just print and complete the Building Subcode Permit Application (PDF) and return to:

Construction Office
Division of Inspections
Room 305
Municipal Building

11. What type of work requires a Building Permit?

Additions, Decks, Ramps (Handicap Accessible Only), Hot Tub / Jacuzzi / Spa

Before a permit can be obtained, the property survey must be reviewed by the Land Use Office. You must contact the Land Use Office at 890-3682 to schedule an appointment to review your survey.

Roofing / Siding More Than 25%

No permit is required for single-family residences. Commercial buildings require a permit.

Pools (In-Ground and Above Ground) / Hot Tubs / Jacuzzi / Spas

Also requires an Electrical Permit.

Above-Ground Pools

Require a plot plan of the site showing the location of the pool and any appurtenances. Bring the proper documents to the Land Use Office, Room 307 in the Municipal Building.

Hot Tub / Jacuzzi / Spa

Before any permits can be obtained, the property survey must be reviewed by the Land Use Office. To schedule an appointment to review your survey, please contact the Land Use Office at 609-890-3682.

In-Ground Pools

Require a grading plan showing existing and proposed grades and the proposed flow of surface drainage. The plan is to be presented with the application(s). The plan must also show the location of the proposed pool and any appurtenances and must be signed and sealed by a New Jersey Professional Engineer. Bring the proper documents to the Land Use Office, Room 307 in the Municipal Building.

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