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Construction Department

Show All Answers

1. Will my project increase my taxes?

It is possible depending on the project. Please review the Tax Assessment Chart to identify the tax implications of your project.

2. Why do I need a Zoning Permit?

Any work involving changes to the exterior of your property will require a zoning review. Some interior work, such as finishing a basement or the addition / subtraction of a bedroom, will also require a zoning review. In these cases, you will be asked to submit a copy of your plot plan (property survey) so that the Zoning Official can review your project for compliance with the zoning ordinance.

If you cannot comply with the zoning ordinance for any reason, you must obtain a variance from the Planning Board before your project can proceed. The Zoning Official is charged with the responsibility of enforcing the zoning ordinance but may not waive its requirements. That power is granted by law to the Planning Board.  If your project requires a variance the Zoning Official will explain the application process to you.

Remember, construction permit applications for projects which change the footprint of the building, lot coverage, or use of the space may also require a zoning approval.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

3. What is a construction permit?

A construction permit grants permission to do most kinds of work on a dwelling or other type of building. The purpose of a permit is to allow our officials to observe the progress of the work to ensure it meets code. The permit consists of six different subcode sections as needed. They are:

• Building
• Electric
• Plumbing
• Mechanical
• Fire
• Elevator

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

4. What are the consequences of working without a permit?

• You may subject yourself to penalties and/or fines of up to $2,000 a day until permits are issued.
• If you proceed with your construction project without having a required permit and you get “caught,” before a permit can be issued you will need zoning approval and you may need a variance or planning board approval. If these approvals/variances are denied, you may be required to remove the constructed improvement.
• You might unknowingly receive substandard materials and/or workmanship from a contractor.
• If you have an insurance claim related to any work done without permits, your carrier may not pay the claim. They often check with the town for permits and the required inspections.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

5. When are construction permits required?

In general, if it is more than a repair of a building, electrical, plumbing or fire element, a permit is probably required. The New Jersey Uniform Construction Code states, “A building or structure shall not be constructed, extended, repaired, removed or altered…” without construction permits except for ordinary repairs. If in doubt, a call to the office is recommended.  (973) 402-9410 Ext. 630

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

6. What does the construction permit process consist of?

If a construction permit is required, the homeowner or contractor applies for the permit. The permit application requires information about the construction project including who will perform the work and what, when and how the work will be done. Sketches, drawings, plans or other documentation of the work will have to be submitted for review, as will payment of the appropriate permit fees upon approval.

Contractor

If you are using a home improvement contractor be aware that the Contractors’ Registration Act requires all home improvement contractors to be registered with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. The Office of Construction Codes is barred from issuing construction permits to an unregistered home improvement contractor who is required to register.

Completing the Application

After the permit application is completed, it is reviewed by the subcode official who will determine if the project is in compliance with the construction codes, zoning ordinance and other municipal or state ordinances and statutes. Applications may be approved, disapproved, or additional information and clarification may be requested.

If the permit application is rejected, the applicant is notified of the reason and may opt to correct and resubmit or appeal the decision. If it is approved, it is processed by the office, the applicant pays the calculated permit fees and a permit is issued.

Construction Permit

The construction permit is the document which grants legal permission for construction to start. Each major phase of construction must be inspected to make certain the work conforms to the appropriate code, the permit, and the approved plans. As construction proceeds, the applicant refers to the inspection schedule and calls the Construction Office to schedule the various inspections.

Completing the Certificate

Upon completion and final inspection of all work, the Construction Official issues a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or a Certificate of Approval (CA), the formal document which marks the completion of the construction project. Note that the work is not considered complete until all inspections have been completed and the Construction Official issues the CO or CA.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

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Library FAQs

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1. How do I get a library card?

Library cards are available to anyone who lives in Boonton with valid identification showing his or her name and address.  This may include a driver’s license, bank statement, utility bill, lease, rent or tax receipt which must be presented at the time of registration. Library cards are good for 3 years. You can use your library card to borrow from most Morris County public libraries.

2. How long can I borrow books and movies for?

Books with the “NEW” sticker can be borrowed for 14 days; books without can be held for 28 days. Audiobooks and music CDs are also 28 days. Movies are borrowed for 7 days with a 3-DVD limit. Video games may be borrowed for 1 week at no charge, with a 3-game limit.

3. What are the Library's fines?

Fines on all books, audiobooks and music cds are $0.10/day. Fines for movies and video games are $1.00 per day PER ITEM.

4. What if I can’t find an item I am looking for?

Please ask a librarian for assistance. You may also go to the MAIN Library Catalog.  There you can log in with your library card number / PIN and type in the book/movie/game you’re seeking.

5. What if a borrowed item is reeeeeeeally late?

You’ll get an overdue notice. An overdue notice is sent when an item is 14 days overdue. If the item is not returned after 6 weeks from the due date, a bill for the replacement cost is sent.

6. How can I renew an item I borrowed?

Provided that no one else is waiting for the item, you can go online to the Library Catalog, log in with your PIN / card number, and click on "My Account". You can then pick the items you want to renew there. You can also call (973) 334-2980 to have a librarian renew your items over the phone, or send an email to bhpl@boontonholmeslibrary.org.

7. What happens if I lose an item I borrowed?

Don't panic. If you lose a book, movie, or video game, you should visit the library and speak with a librarian.

8. What other services do you offer?

We offer Notary services FREE of charge and Fax services for $1.00 per page.  In addition, we offer a wide variety of programs for every age group.  We hope you explore our web pages and visit the library to learn more.

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Permits

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1. Will my project increase my taxes?

It is possible depending on the project. Please review the Tax Assessment Chart to identify the tax implications of your project.

2. What type of work on my house requires a Construction Permit?

Some home maintenance does not require a Construction Permit; however, there are maintenance projects that do.  By clicking the link below, you will find a listing of items requiring a permit and zoning application. If your project is not listed, please call the Building Department to confirm whether you need one or not at (974) 402-9410 x630.  

 

For a full list of projects, visit the Zoning & Permit REQUIREMENTS page by CLICKING HERE.

3. Why should I get a permit?

Getting a permit brings you the services of the Building Department's inspectors for building, plumbing, electric and fire.  The inspector approves each phase of the construction process while checking to see the work is done safely and properly.\

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

4. I like to do my own home improvements around the house and I'm not going to use a contractor, so why do I need a Construction Permit?

Work without a permit is illegal and can pose serious complications for you when you sell your house.  Penalties for failure to obtain a permit prior to construction are up to $2,000 for each offense [N.J.A.C. 5:23-2.31 (e)].    Work done by the homeowner requiring a permit must be inspected to ensure the work has been done according to code. There are also legal and financial liabilities if you don't obtain a permit. Any fire and homeowner's insurance you have will be invalidated if you do work without a permit.  If there is a fire in your house, the insurance company may use the illegal work as an excuse not to pay on your claim.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

5. How long will it take to get my permit?

The size and scope of your project will determine the length of time for the review process--i.e.. a roofing permit will take a couple of days, an addition/alteration could take one week, a new home could take up to the maximum allowed, 20 business days.  The completeness of the information submitted with your permit can greatly assist with the review and approval process.    

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

6. How much will my permit cost?

The cost of permit is determined by the size and scope of your project.  Two fees are determined for the permit.  The first fee is determined by local ordinances and the second fee is determined by the New Jersey State Department of Community Affairs based on either the dollar amount of the work to be done and, if applicable, the total cubic volume of the new space to be built.  Please review the Town's fee schedule by CLICKING HERE.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

7. I will be using a contractor for my project; however, he said I didn't need a permit for the work?

A reputable contractor should be able to determine whether a permit is needed before the work is performed.  However, it is ultimately the homeowner's responsibility to acquire the necessary permits before any work is performed. Therefore, check with the Building Department to confirm what is required prior to beginning your project.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

8. Who calls for the inspections?

Either the homeowner or the contractor can schedule inspections.  However, if you are using a contractor, be sure to establish who will be calling in for inspections before the work begins.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

9. My contractor said that the work was finished and I paid him, why do I need a final inspection?

Final inspections should be completed before the final payment.  A contractor who hasn't received final payment is more likely to come back and correct a failed inspection versus a paid one.  The New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs Rule:  N.J.A.C. 13:45A-16.2(a)10.ii states:  "For inspection on construction permits for:  building, electric, plumbing, fire protection or elevator, final payment to the contractor is not required to be made before a final inspection is performed."

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

10. I am selling my home and I had some work done without a permit, now what do I do?

Please call the Building Department at 973-402-9410, ext. 630 so this can be corrected.  A "retro" permit can be generated requiring the same fees and inspections as a regular permit.  Please note, since this is a time-sensitive situation and the permit may take several weeks to process, please call the Building Department as soon as possible to get the process going.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

11. I obtained permits for all the work done on my home, do I get a certificate?

Yes, when the final inspections required are completed and passed, you may by request, receive the appropriate certificate stating the permit has been closed out and all inspections completed, otherwise the certificate will be placed in your construction file.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

12. I have had work done on my home with a permit and am unsure as to whether or not the permit has been closed out?

Please call the Building Department at 973-402-9410, ext. 630 to check the inspection status of the permit.  If needed, we will schedule the necessary inspections to close out the permit and issue the required certificate.

For more information, visit the Construction Department page by CLICKING HERE.

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Vital Statistics FAQs

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1. What forms of identification can I use to get a certified copy of a record?

Main Forms of ID

• Valid photo driver’s license showing your current address
• Photo identification card issued by the department of Motor Vehicles 
• Valid driver’s license without photo and an alternate form of identification with a current address
• Two alternate forms of identification (one must contain your current address)

Alternate Forms of ID

• Auto insurance card
• Auto registration card
• Resident card
• U.S. or foreign passport
• School/work identification
• Government issued identification (state/county/military)
• Public assistance identification
• Rent or mortgage documents
• Utility bills (last 90 days) – electricity, gas, telephone, water
• Bank statement (last 90 days)
• Tax Return/W-2 forms – recent or previous year
• Letters sent in your name from a government agency
• Crib card and admission or discharge papers from the hospital
• Court correspondence
• A court order
• Naturalization papers
• Notification of unemployment

2. Who is authorized to receive a certified copy of a marriage or civil union certificate?

If your marriage or civil union occurred in Trenton, you can request a copy of the record in person or by mail. If you request a copy of the marriage or civil union certificate in person, you will receive a certified copy at that time. All certified copies contain the official stamp of the city of Boonton. The person requesting a marriage or civil union certificate will need valid photo identification. The following persons are authorized to obtain a certified copy of a record. Proof of relationship to the person named on the record is required.

• The registered couple named on the marriage or civil union certificate.
• The parents of the individuals listed on the record.
• A child of the person named on the record if of legal age. (You will need to show your own birth certificate.) 
• A sibling of the person named on the record. (You will have to show a certified copy of your birth certificate.) 
• A legal representative (You will be required to show a court order.) 
• A guardian with legal custody of a minor child. (You will have to show the court order.) 
• A federal, state, or local government agency for official use only. Identification is required.

3. Can I authorize another person to obtain a certified copy of a marriage or civil union certificate?

You can authorize another person to obtain a copy of the marriage or civil union certificate on your behalf. The applicant must provide a notarized letter that includes the names of the individuals named on the record, and the couple’s date and place of the marriage or civil union. Include the name of the person authorized to obtain a copy of the record. The person authorized to receive the marriage or civil union certificate will be required to submit a valid form of identification.

4. Where can I get a certified copy of a marriage or civil union record?

Apply in person or send your written request to: Town of Boonton, Vital Statistics, 100 Washington Street, Boonton, NJ 07005. Our office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30AM to 4:00PM.

5. What will I need to do to obtain a certified copy of a marriage or civil union certificate by mail?

If you send your application by mail, please provide the following information or print a copy of the application to request a certificate and complete the Marriage or Civil Union section. 

• The full name of the couple as it appears in the record
• The exact date of the marriage or civil union
• The place of marriage or civil union
• Attach copies of your proof of relationship to the individual identified on the record, unless you are requesting your own record
• Indicate the number of copies needed, and the reason for which you are applying for the marriage or civil union certificate (to obtain a passport, driver’s license, identification, registration for school, marriage, etc.)
• Include your telephone number including area code

6. How much does a certified copy of a marriage or civil union, birth or death certificate cost?

The cost for a certified copy is $10 for the first copy and $5 for each additional copy purchased at the same time. Cash, checks or money orders addressed to “Town of Boonton” are acceptable

7. Who is authorized to receive a certified copy of a birth certificate?

You can request a copy of a birth certificate in person or by mail. If you request a copy of the birth certificate in person, you will receive a certified copy at that time. All certified copies contain the official stamp of the city of Boonton. The person requesting a birth certificate will need valid photo identification.  The following persons are authorized to obtain a certified copy of a record. Proof of relationship to the person named on the record is required.

• The person named on the birth certificate, if of legal age (Include any legal name changes made to your record)
• The mother of the person listed on the record
• The father (if listed on the record)
• A child/grandchild of the person named on the record. (You will need to show your own birth certificate.)
• A sibling of the person named on the record. (You will have to show a certified copy of your birth certificate.)
• The current spouse (You must present a certified copy of your marriage.)
• A legal representative (You will be required to show a court order.)
• A guardian with legal custody of a minor child (You will have to show the court order.)
• A federal, state, or local government agency for official use only. Identification is required.
• The grandparent will need a notarized letter from the child’s parents to obtain the birth certificate of the grandchild. The grandparent must also show his/her identification.

8. How do I establish proof of relationship for a birth certificate request?

• Your own birth certificate: your valid ID is acceptable; however, if you have assumed your spouse’s or civil union partner’s surname, provide a copy of your marriage or civil union certificate to link the name on your current ID to the name on your birth certificate.  
• Your child’s birth certificate: if the name on your identification matches the name of the child’s parent your identification will establish your relationship.  If your current name does not match the name as recorded on the birth certificate, as the parent you will need to supply a copy of your marriage or civil union certificate or legal name change.
• Your spouse’s/civil union partner’s birth record: provide a copy of YOUR birth certificate with parents’ names.
• Your parent’s, grandparent’s or sibling’s vital record: you must establish that you are the person’s child / grandchild / sibling by linking the name on your ID to the subject of the record.  For example, if you changed your last name after marriage/civil union and want a grandparent’s vital record, you must: 
  • Provide your marriage/civil union certificate to show your name at birth, 
  • provide your birth certificate to identify your parent, and 
  • provide the parent’s birth certificate to identify the grandparent.

9. What if I am looking for a certified copy of a record and am an executor or legal representative?

1. An executor of an estate: you must supply proof of appointment as the executor.  
2. The legal representative of the executor of an estate: you must show proof of legal retainer by the executor and proof of the appointment of the individual as the executor.
3. The legal representative of an individual that is eligible to receive a certified copy of a vital record: you must supply proof of legal retainer by the eligible individual and their proof of relationship.

10. What will I need to do to obtain a certified copy of a birth certificate by mail?

If you send your application by mail, please provide the following information or print a copy of the application to request a certificate and complete the Birth section.

• Full name of the person as it appears in the record. (Include any legal name change you made to the record.)
• The mother’s full maiden name
• The full name of the father (if listed on the record)
• The exact date of birth
• The exact place of birth
• Attach copies of your proof of relationship to the individual identified on the record, unless you are requesting your own record
• Indicate the number of copies needed, and the reason for which you are applying for the birth certificate (i.e. to obtain a passport, driver’s license, ID, registration for school, marriage, etc.)
• Include your telephone number

11. Can I authorize another person to obtain a certified copy of a birth certificate?

You can authorize another person to obtain a copy of the birth certificate on your behalf. The applicant must provide a notarized letter that includes the name of the individual named on the record, the individual’s date of birth, the mother’s full maiden name, and the name of the father if listed on the record. Include the name of the person authorized to obtain a copy of the record. The person authorized to receive the birth certificate will be required to submit a valid form of identification.

12. Where can I get a certified copy of a birth certificate?

Apply in person or send your written request to: 

Town Of Boonton

Vital Statistics

100 Washington Street

Boonton, NJ 07005

Our office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30AM to 4:00PM.

13. How much does a certified copy of a birth certificate cost?

The cost for a certified copy is $10 for the first copy and $5 for each additional copy purchased at the same time. Cash, checks or money orders addressed to “Town of Boonton” are acceptable.

14. Who is authorized to receive a certified copy of a death certificate?

You can request a copy of a death certificate in person or by mail. If you request a copy of the death certificate in person, you will receive a certified copy at that time. All certified copies contain the official stamp of the Town of Boonton. The person requesting a death certificate will need valid photo identification.  

• The following persons are authorized to obtain a certified copy of a record. Proof of relationship to the person named on the record is required.
• The parents of the person listed on the record
• A child of the person named on the record, if of legal age. (You will need to show your own birth certificate.)
• A sibling of the person named on the record. (You will have to show a certified copy of your birth certificate.)
• The current spouse (You must present a certified copy of your marriage.)
• A legal representative (You will be required to show a court order.)
• A guardian with legal custody of a minor child (You will have to show the court order.)
• A federal, state, or local government agency for official use only. Identification is required.

15. Can I authorize another person to obtain a certified copy of a death certificate?

You can authorize another person to obtain a copy of the death certificate on your behalf. The applicant must provide a notarized letter that includes the name of the decedent’s name as it appears on the record, the decedent’s date and place of death. Include the name of the person authorized to obtain a copy of the record. The person authorized to receive the death certificate will be required to submit a valid form of identification.

16. Where can I get a certified copy of a death certificate?

Apply in person or send your written request to: 

Town of Boonton

Vital Statistics

100 Washington Street

Boonton, NJ  07005

Our office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

17. What will I need to do to obtain a certified copy of a death certificate by mail?

If you send your application by mail, please provide the following information or print a copy of the application to requesta certificate and complete the Death section.

• The decedent’s full name as it appears in the record
• The decedent’s mother’s full maiden name
• The decedent’s father’s full name (if listed on the record)
• The exact date of death
• The exact place of death
• Attach copies of your proof of relationship to the individual identified on the record
• Indicate the number of copies needed, and the reason for which you are applying for the death certificate (to obtain a passport, driver’s license, ID, registration for school, marriage, etc.)
• Include your telephone number