“Do I need a permit for this?” It’s one of the most common questions homeowners in Millstone, Freehold, and Monroe Township ask. The answer affects your project timeline, budget, and potentially your ability to sell your home down the road.
Here’s what you need to know about building permits in Central New Jersey.
Why Permits Exist
Permits aren’t bureaucratic obstacles — they’re consumer protection:
- Safety: Inspections ensure work meets building codes designed to protect you and your family
- Insurance: Unpermitted work may not be covered if something goes wrong
- Resale: When you sell, buyers (and their lenders) will want to see permits for major work
- Liability: If unpermitted work causes problems, you’re legally responsible
What Requires a Permit in NJ
Generally, you need a permit for:
Structural Work
- Additions
- Removing or altering load-bearing walls
- New decks or significant deck repairs
- Roofing (full replacement)
- Foundation work
Electrical
- New circuits
- Panel upgrades
- Any new wiring
- Adding outlets in certain locations
Plumbing
- Moving fixtures (toilets, sinks, showers)
- Water heater replacement
- New gas lines
- Adding bathrooms
HVAC
- New system installation
- Ductwork modifications
- Adding gas appliances
Other
- Finishing a basement (habitable space)
- Converting a garage
- Installing a fence over 6 feet
- Sheds over 200 square feet
What Usually Doesn’t Need a Permit
Minor work typically doesn’t require permits:
- Painting
- Flooring replacement
- Cabinet replacement (same layout)
- Fixture swaps (same location)
- Landscaping
- Minor repairs
Note: Requirements vary by municipality. Millstone Township may have different requirements than Freehold Borough or Monroe Township. Always check with your local building department.
The Permit Process in Central NJ
- Application: Submit plans showing what you’re doing
- Review: Building department reviews for code compliance
- Approval: You get the permit (usually a placard to post)
- Inspections: Work is inspected at various stages
- Final sign-off: Certificate of approval when complete
Timeline varies by municipality — Millstone and smaller towns are often faster than larger municipalities like Monroe Township.
What Happens Without a Permit
Skipping permits to save time or money can backfire:
- Stop work orders: If the town finds out, they can halt your project
- Fines: Penalties for unpermitted work can be substantial
- Tear-out: You may have to remove finished work so it can be inspected
- Selling problems: Buyers’ inspectors often catch unpermitted work
- Insurance issues: Claims may be denied for unpermitted work
The Contractor’s Role
A reputable contractor handles permits as part of the job. If a contractor suggests skipping permits “to save money,” that’s a red flag. They’re either cutting corners or don’t have the proper credentials.
At JLM Construction, we pull all necessary permits and schedule inspections in Monmouth, Middlesex, and Mercer counties. It’s part of doing the job right.
Have questions about whether your project needs permits? Contact us for guidance. We serve Millstone, Freehold, Monroe, East Windsor, Cranbury, Manalapan, and all of Central New Jersey.