Code Enforcement

The Township of Nutley Code Enforcement Department serves as the Local Enforcing Agency responsible for administering and enforcing the State of New Jersey Uniform Construction Code (UCC). The department issues construction permits, performs required inspections throughout the construction process, and issues Certificates of Occupancy and other applicable approvals.

Construction and land development within the Township are governed by federal, state, county, and local regulations. These include the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code as well as the Township of Nutley Code, which addresses zoning, property maintenance, tree removal, soil movement, stormwater management, construction site operations, noise, and other development-related requirements.

The Uniform Construction Code establishes minimum standards for the design and construction of buildings to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. State-licensed code officials review plans, issue permits, and inspect projects to ensure compliance with applicable codes and the use of approved building materials.

The Code Enforcement Department is located on the 2nd Floor of the Municipal Building.

Office Hours

• Monday through Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Closed for lunch: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
• Construction permits are issued until 3:00 p.m. daily.

If you are planning a project and are unsure whether a permit is required or have questions about the permitting process, please contact the Code Enforcement Department. Our staff is available to assist you and help ensure your project complies with all applicable regulations.

Mission Statement

• To protect the health, safety and welfare of all users of buildings and structures within the Township of Nutley through the enforcement of the Uniform Construction Code of the State of New Jersey
• To insure the adequate maintenance of buildings and structures throughout the Township by the active enforcement of the Uniform Construction Code of the State of New Jersey
• To provide and maintain a pleasing visual environment through the application and enforcement of the township's Development Regulation.
• To assist in the orderly development of the township by applying the rules and regulations established by the Board of Commissioners.
• To assist the Board of Commissioners in providing a better community by suggesting the elimination of unnecessary or obsolete regulations, the alteration of regulations to recognize new and innovative technologies and the establishment of new regulations to address changing lifestyles and objectives
• To assist applicants in the process of obtaining necessary approvals for use and development of properties within the Township
• To provide assistance to property owners and users, in times of crisis, to minimize disturbance of life and livelihood
• To maintain and advance the quality of life of people living, working and visiting the Township of Nutley by promoting the ideals and principals set forth by the Board of Commissioners through their legislative actions

Inspection Time Frames

Inspections are scheduled during the following days and times:

• Building/Zoning (Transfer of Real Estate) 
  • Monday - Friday
    8:00am - 3:30pm
• Fire/Zoning (Transfer of Real Estate) 
  • Monday / Wednesday / Thursday
    11:00am - 3:00pm
• Plumbing 
  • Monday - Thursday
    10:00am - 2:00pm
• Electric 
  • Monday / Wednesday / Thursday / Friday
    10:00am - 3:00pm

Permits

The type, location and extent of the work to be performed for any given project will determine what type(s) of permit(s) will be required to perform the intended work, including any or all of the following: zoning permit, UCC demolition and/or construction permits, tree removal permit, soil movement permit, sign permit. Certain projects and types of work may also require the prior approval of the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment before any permit applications can be made.

Construction Projects that require Building Permits: 

The list below is not intended to be all-inclusive, but are the most frequently issued permits. You should always call the Construction Department when you are planning a project, big or small, to see if a permit will be required. This could help make your project a success and avoid potential problems, which could cost you time and money.

If you are a business owner that intends to be occupying an existing building or tenant space, regardless of whether construction work will be performed, a Zoning Permit is required for all new tenancies before occupying the building or tenant space. Planning Board approval may also be required. Please inquire with the Code Enforcement Department and/or Planning Board office. There is certain construction work that you may be allowed to do without first obtaining permits such as installing floor (not wall) tiles, painting, replacing same size windows and doors, but if you are in doubt, a call to the Code Enforcement Department is recommended

Permits must be obtained before that start of work except that emergency replacement of furnaces, boilers and water heaters will be allowed as long as the Code Enforcement Department is notified of the replacement at the time of installation and permits are obtained within five days thereafter.

If you need a permit for the work, the permit process and fees will be explained to you by department personnel at the time of your visit or your telephone call, and you will be given the forms that you will need to apply for a permit.