Construction Code Enforcement

Michael J. Martello

Construction & Zoning Official

Town Hall Annex
410 Kearny Ave.
Kearny, NJ, 07032

Phone: 201-955-7882
Fax: 201-998-5171
tchisari@kearnynj.org

Featured Links

• GIS - Town of Kearny
• Department of Community Affairs
  Division of Codes and Standards
• Land Use Regulations Chapter 36,38
• Ordinary Repairs
• United Laboratories
• Division of Fire Safety State of NJ
• PSE&G for Builders, Developers & Contractors
• National Fire Prevention
• Construction Permit Forms
• Town of Kearny Zoning Map
• International Code Council
• Pool Safety Information
• Building a Safe Deck

Important Topics

• Construction Code Enforcement
• Directory
• Zoning and Building Permits FAQ

Construction Code Enforcement

The citizens of the community have access to all aspects of Code Enforcement provided by The Town of Kearny.

The Construction Code Office enforces the following

Ordinances:

• Land Use Regulations Ordinance
• Chapter 36 & 38
• Uniform Construction Code
• N.J.A.C 5:23
• Property Maintenance Ordinance
• Chapter 17

Sub-Code Officials are available for consultations:

• 8:00 a.m.— 10:00 a.m.
• 1:00 p.m.— 2:00 p.m.

Office Hours

• 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Monday thru Friday

Directory

 What is the purpose of zoning?

The purpose is to ensure that any proposed use, construction, or alteration is allowed in the zone and will be located within the required setbacks from the property lines.  In almost all cases, a Zoning Permit will be required before a Building Permit can be issued.  Always check with the building department to determine whether a permit is necessary.  If you cannot meet zoning requirements, it may be possible to obtain a variance.

Some instances of when permits are required are follows:

• Zoning approval and Building Permits are required for most home improvement projects, including additions, decks, sheds, fireplaces, and swimming pools.
• A Zoning Permit is required for a new and replacement sidewalk, driveway, apron, patio, fences, or service walks.
• A Building Permit & Zoning permit, is also required for roofing and siding.
• An Electrical Permit is required for most electrical work.
• A Fire Protection Permit is required for smoke and heat detectors and fire suppression work.
• A Plumbing Permit is required for replacement or installation of a furnace, boiler, water service, hot water heater or sewer or gas lines.  Electrical and Fire Permits are also required for HVAC furnace and boiler replacement or new units.

How long does it take to obtain a permit and what is the cost?

Practically speaking, any use of your property will require a Zoning Permit $25.00.  We are fortunate in Kearny to have a moderately priced permit:  twenty dollars ($20.00) per thousand dollars ($1000.00) worth of work, with a minimum fee of $50.00.  Depending on the complexity of your job, it will take five to seven business days to process your permit.  You will be called when your permit is ready to be picked up. The Building Department has 20 working days to issue a permit, but for small jobs, in most cases a permit can be issued in 7 business days.

What information is needed to obtain a permit?

A survey plan indicating the location of proposed construction on your property and conformity to the applicable setbacks is required to obtain zoning approvals.  The survey plan must be prepared based upon a survey performed by a licensed land surveyor.  A survey of your property is required. Plans must be submitted in accordance with the provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code:  Two sets of plans and supporting documentation reflecting the manner in which the improvement is to be constructed or installed are required to obtain a Building Permit. All drawings must be to scale. Plans must be prepared by either a New Jersey licensed architect, engineer, or single-family homeowner who has prepared his or her own plans for construction, alteration, or repair of a structure used or intended to be used exclusively as his or her private residence and to be constructed by him or herself. 

How do I know to prepare the plans?

• Building Plans must comply with the IBC (International Building Code NJ Edition), 2006 Edition.
• Plumbing plans must comply with the National Standard Plumbing Code, 2006 Edition.
• Fire plans and mechanical plans must comply with the IBC Fire and Mechanical Codes, 2006 Edition.
• Electrical plans must comply with the NEC (National Electric Code), 2005 Edition

Additions or alterations must necessitate upgrading of the existing building to comply with current requirements, including, but not limited to, light, air, egress, and smoke detectors, as part of the construction.  The Building Department has general guidelines available to assist residents for most home improvement projects. All permits require an inspection, and many permits require more than one inspection.  Ask our staff about the details on scheduling an inspection.