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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Franklin Township
The Construction Department is responsible for permitting, inspecting, and monitoring new/temporary buildings, additions, renovations, demolitions, electrical work, HVAC systems, plumbing work, decks, fences, fireplace installations, sheds, and swimming pools within Franklin Township.
- Exempt Garden-type utility sheds 200 sq ft or less in footprint, 10 feet or less in height, with no utility connections
- Exempt Ordinary maintenance and routine repairs (does not include structural changes or alterations to means of egress)
Note: Contact Construction Office before beginning any project to confirm if permit is required. Even if exempt from construction permits, zoning permits may still be required.
- Completed Construction Permit Application
- Detailed drawing of proposed construction (2 copies)
- Copy of estimate or list of materials and total cost
- Applicable subcode technical sections (Building F110, Electrical F120, Plumbing F130, Fire F140, Mechanical F145)
- Zoning approval where required
- Building code
- New Jersey Uniform Construction Code (UCC), including Building, Plumbing, Electrical, Fire, Mechanical, and Elevator Subcodes
- Permit validity
- Permit validity governed by New Jersey Uniform Construction Code; typically 12 months from date of issuance.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders must comply with New Jersey Home Improvement Contractors License laws and disclosure requirements.
- Contractor requirements
- Contractors must hold valid State Home Improvement Contractors License and comply with NJ UCC requirements.
Source: Construction Department ↗
Application process
Typical processing: Processing time varies; call Construction Department before beginning project for estimate based on project scope.
- 01 Call Construction Department at (908) 735-5215 to confirm permit and inspection requirements before beginning project.
- 02 Prepare required documents: Completed Construction Permit Application, detailed drawing of proposed construction (2 copies), copy of estimate or list of materials and total cost, applicable Subcode Technical Section forms, and zoning approval where required.
- 03 Submit application in person at Construction Department during office hours.
- 04 Construction Official reviews completeness and determines final fee requirements.
- 05 Pay construction permit fees and plan-check fees.
- 06 Schedule inspections with Construction Department (staff available to offer advice on completing jobs safely).
- 07 Complete required inspections and obtain final Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Approval.
Typical processing time: Processing time varies; call Construction Department before beginning project for estimate based on project scope.
Source: Construction Department ↗
Fee schedule
Franklin Township building permit fees
Contact Construction Office for current fee information and payment methods.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- (908) 735-5215 (phone)
- Scheduling deadline
- Call before beginning project to schedule inspections.
- Inspection hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM & 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM, Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Thursday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Friday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Typical sequence: New Jersey UCC inspection sequence: footing/foundation, underfloor MEP, slab, framing, rough trades, insulation, drywall, finals (including Fire Official inspection), and final building inspection.
Source: Construction Department ↗
Frequently asked
Common questions about Franklin Township permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Franklin Township, NJ? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Franklin Township, NJ? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Franklin Township, NJ? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Franklin Township, NJ? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Franklin Township, NJ? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Franklin Township, NJ? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Construction Department before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.