Planning and Zoning Department

 

Director of Planning

Russell Stern, PP, CLA

 

Office Hours:  9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday

 

(973) 448-2008

 

      

 

The Planning and Zoning Department is responsible for administering and enforcing the Township's Zoning, Subdivision, and Site Plan Ordinances.  It also assists the Planning Board and Zoning Board. The Department is involved in long-term planning of the community through Master Plan amendments and Land Development Ordinance revisions.  The staff is available to answer any questions and provide assistance to residents who wish to appear before either board or apply for a Zoning Permit. The department is staffed with a full time Zoning Officer who reviews all Zoning Permit applications to ensure compliance with the Zoning Ordinance.

 

A Zoning Permit is required for all fences, decks, patios, pools, hot tubs, spas, building additions and sheds regardless of their height and/or size. There is a $25.00 fee for a residential Zoning Permit application. This permit also applies to any business that wishes to change ownership, expand their operation, change tenants or signs.  The fee for a non-residential Zoning Permit is $50.00.  Sign permits are required for all freestanding signs, wall signs and banner-type signs prior to their installation.   If either the resident or business does not conform to the zoning in their particular area; and the Zoning Permit is denied, they have the right to apply to the Zoning Board for approval.

 

Home offices are permitted as an accessory use on a residential property, subject to satisfying the standards in the Zoning Ordinance. These standards are intended to ensure that the home office does not negatively impact adjoining residents and the residential character of the neighborhood.

 

The following documents are available for review and purchase in the Planning and Zoning Department:

 

 

The Planning Board consists of 9 regular members from the Township including the Mayor, or appointee and a Council person.  It also includes 2 alternate members from the community.  The Planning Board is appointed by the Mayor and Council.  The Board reviews all subdivision and site plan applications that are proposed within a permitted zone.  It is also responsible for long range planning through the Master Plan, and reviews and comments to the Governing Body on revisions to the Land Development Ordinance.

 

The Zoning Board of Adjustment is comprised of 7 regular members and 2 alternate members from the Township who are appointed by the Governing Body.    The Board is responsible for hearing appeals from a decision by the Zoning Officer; interpretation of the Zoning Map or Land Development Ordinance; bulk variances (typically setback and coverage); use variances; and site plan and subdivisions in connection with a use variance. 

 

This department is here to provide direction or assistance in the Zoning or Planning process.  Should you have any questions or need assistance please contact us.