Obtaining a Permit - Buildings (2024)

The majority of construction requires a Department of Buildings permit. Most often, a New York State licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) must file plans and pull permits before work begins.

There are many permit types, such as construction, boiler, elevator and plumbing. The primary permit applications are: New Building (NB) and Alterations Type-1, 2, and 3:

  • NB: Construction of new structures
  • ALT1: Major alterations that will change use, egress or occupancy
  • ALT2: Multiple types of work, not affecting use, egress or occupancy
  • ALT3: One type of minor work, not affecting use, egress or occupancy

A New York State licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) must submit construction plans to obtain a permit. A Department plan examiner will review the plans for any legal/zoning objections. When objections are satisfied, the Department will approve the application. A licensed PE or RA may also certify that plans conform to all applicable laws.

Learn more about Professional Certification.

Obtaining a Permit - Buildings (1)

Minor Alterations Without Permits

Some minor work does not require a permit; a PE, RA, or Department borough office manager can explain the exceptions. For example, installing new kitchen cabinets doesn’t require a permit but Contractors must have a Department of Consumer Affairs Home Improvement Contractor License.

Filing & Records Management Fees

A licensed PE, RA, or Contractor can estimate these fees.

Plan Examiner Review & Approval

Plan approval time depends upon the project’s complexity and the issues – or objections – to be resolved.

Project Snapshot

  • Determine the necessary permits, and then file applications and construction drawings
  • Obtain Department plan approval
  • File and pull permits
  • Perform approved work
  • Pass the final inspections
  • Receive a new or amended Certificate of Occupancy or Letter of Completion

Helpful Links

Obtaining a Permit - Buildings (2024)

FAQs

Obtaining a Permit - Buildings? ›

Once the Building Department receives a complete application, we are obligated to review or deny the permit within 20 business days -- but in most cases it is much sooner.

How long does it take to get a building permit in New Jersey? ›

Once the Building Department receives a complete application, we are obligated to review or deny the permit within 20 business days -- but in most cases it is much sooner.

How much are building permits in NJ? ›

Building Fee Schedule
State surcharge is $.00334 per cubic foot on new buildings & additions. For all others, the State surcharge is $1.70 per $1000. Minimum fee for each subcode is $50.
Residential
Up to $50,000$25 per $1000
above $50,000$20 per $1000
20 more rows

What requires a construction permit in NJ? ›

Building permits are generally required for any building, structural, electric, HVAC, and plumbing projects.

How do I get a building permit in New York City? ›

A New York State licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) must submit construction plans to obtain a permit. A Department plan examiner will review the plans for any legal/zoning objections. When objections are satisfied, the Department will approve the application.

Who is responsible for pulling permits in NJ? ›

Application for a permit is made by the owner or his agent (who may be a licensed engineer or architect, or a plumbing, electrical or other contractor employed in connection with the proposed work). All issued permits are the property of the owner.

How to get a permit after work is done in NJ? ›

How Do You Gain A Permit After Work Is Already Done On The Home Before Selling A Home?
  1. Contact your local permit office.
  2. Fill out an application.
  3. Schedule and pass an inspection.
  4. Fix any changes that the city requires.
  5. Pay permit costs.

What is the penalty for building without a permit in NJ? ›

Working Without a Permit Equals Violations in NJ

For each violation found, a homeowner can be fined up to $2000 for each infraction – even if the violations do not pose a safety hazard. Always obtain the proper permits and inspections for your home improvement projects.

How much is a permit test in NJ? ›

There is no fee to take the exam, but there is a $10 charge for either type of permit and an additional $4 for the decals.

How much does it cost to build a building in NJ? ›

With less available land and a higher population density, the cost of building a house in NJ is higher compared to other regions. It costs between $250 and $650 per square foot to build a house in New Jersey, depending on your features and finishes.

Do I need a permit to redo my bathroom in NJ? ›

By default, most bathroom remodels in NJ will require a permit of some kind because they normally involve plumbing or electrical work. Whether working with a contractor or planning a DIY project, you should contact your town's Building Department to ensure you have the permits you need before you start.

Do I need a permit to build a deck in NJ? ›

If you are replacing your deck you will need a Building Permit and Land Use (Zoning) Permit. If you are just replacing the existing deck boards (flooring) a permit is not required. If you are replacing any structural members such as joist or girders or railings a Building Permit is required.

Do you need a permit to replace windows in NJ? ›

Window Replacement Permits In New Jersey

Since constructing a new window requires changing the frame and removing siding and trim, you will require a permit before starting the project. You will also need a permit if you're replacing a current window with a much larger one that causes you to alter the wall.

How big of a building can I build without a permit in NY? ›

The Rules of the City of New York §101-14 requires that backyard sheds meet the following requirements: Size: Up to 120 square feet – no permits needed. Above 121 square feet – plans, approval, and permits required. Height: Maximum 7 feet 6 inches.

How much does a NYC building permit cost? ›

For example, as of 2021, the DOB fees for new buildings and alterations are calculated as follows: For the first $100,000 of construction cost: $0.25 per square foot. For the next $900,000 of construction cost: $0.20 per square foot. For the next $2,000,000 of construction cost: $0.15 per square foot.

How long does a NYC building permit last? ›

A Building Permit is valid up to a year after the date of issuance and can be renewed at the cost of the original fee (not including the Certificate of Occupancy fee).

How long does it take to get a building permit in the US? ›

Once all necessary documentation and plans are submitted, the building authority will add your project to the queue for review. The hard work is complete at this point, and all that is left to do is wait. This phase can take up to 6-12 months or longer to approve your building plan, so it's important to be patient.

How do I get a building license in NJ? ›

These are the basic steps to receiving a contractor's license in New Jersey:
  1. Submit an application and necessary documentation to the Division of Consumer Affairs.
  2. Complete the Disclosure Statement on the application.
  3. Submit a Licensing Application to the DOBI if you want to offer financing options.
Oct 20, 2022

How do I check open permits on a house in NJ? ›

This portal is located at: http://sdl.town/sdlBrklyHghts . The portal will require you to create an account, but the service is free, and you can log in to access property permit information anytime. For more information, visit the Check Permit Status Online webpage.

Who is responsible for a Certificate of Occupancy in NJ? ›

A Certificate of Occupancy is required for all rental properties-before a tenant can move in-to ensure the premises are up to code. It is the landlord's responsibility to have a CO each time a tenant changes.

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