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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Ewing Township
A construction permit is required for all construction, enlargement, repair, renovation, alteration, reconstruction, demolition, or change of use.
- Exempt Day-to-day repairs and improvements including painting, window and door replacement using new material of same dimensions, and carpet installations
Note: Verify your specific project with the Construction Office before proceeding. Additional exemptions as defined by the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code may apply.
- Completed Construction Permit Application
- Two sets of drawings (three sets for health or historical occupancies)
- Applicable subcode technical sections (Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Protection, Mechanical, Elevator)
- Valid New Jersey State Registration/License for all contractors (required since January 1, 2006)
- Proof of Certificate of Insurance from contractor
- Contract including start date, end date, and exact materials to be used
- Building code
- New Jersey Uniform Construction Code (NJ UCC)
- Permit validity
- 12 months from the date of the last inspection per New Jersey Uniform Construction Code.
- Owner-builder
- Owner-builders may prepare their own drawings for single-family dwellings where they will reside. Homeowners are not required to sign permit forms.
- Contractor requirements
- All contractors must hold valid NJ State Registration/License: Home Improvement Contractor (13VH), Electrical Contractor (34EB), Plumbing Contractor (36BI), HVAC Contractor (19HC). License numbers must appear on contractor vehicles and all business letterheads. Verify at https://newjersey.mylicense.com/verification/
Application process
Typical processing: Varies by project complexity; consult with Construction Office for estimates.
- 01 Create an account on the SDL Portal at https://www.sdlportal.com/towns/nj/mercer/ewingtwp (preferred method)
- 02 For residential (single-family dwelling where homeowner resides): homeowner may prepare own drawings; submit in duplicate with applicable subcode technical sections.
- 03 For commercial work: drawings must be completed by a New Jersey-licensed architect or engineer; submit in duplicate with applicable subcode technical sections.
- 04 Commercial projects must also submit final 'as builts' in digital form on CD.
- 05 Homeowners are not required to sign permit forms; contractors must submit all permit applications.
- 06 Pay all required permit fees through the SDL Portal or in person.
- 07 Schedule inspections through the SDL Portal (preferred), by email, or in person.
Typical processing time: Varies by project complexity; consult with Construction Office for estimates.
Fee schedule
Ewing Township building permit fees
Senior Citizen Discount (25% for property owners 65 or older who own and reside at property). Proof of residency and age required (driver's license; NO PO Boxes). Discounts must be requested PRIOR to permit issuance.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- SDL Portal at https://www.sdlportal.com/towns/nj/mercer/ewingtwp (preferred) (online)
- Include Permit #, inspection type, 3 dates (no time frame), property address (email)
- Inspection hours
- Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Typical sequence: Plans and all supporting documentation released by construction department must be on site. If homeowner cannot be present, released plans can be put in conspicuous place (e.g., front door). Any work that will be concealed must receive rough inspection before being covered. Final payment not due until all final inspections completed and approved.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Ewing Township permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Ewing Township, NJ? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Ewing Township, NJ? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Ewing Township, NJ? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Ewing Township, NJ? ▸
05 What work is exempt from building permits in Ewing Township, NJ? ▸
06 How do I schedule a building inspection in Ewing Township, NJ? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with Code Enforcement and Construction Office before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.