General Information
Permit Process in a Nutshell
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Visit or call the Building Department to speak with the appropriate Code Official.
The Code Official will ask "What are you going to do and where are you going to do it?" and will then discuss with you the requirements (codes/ordinances) regarding your project. The initial contact will provide the resources and information you will need to make your project a success and avoid the potential problems that could cost you time and money.
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Submit the appropriate permit application(s).
Permit applications require specific information about the work you intend to perform. You will be asked to document who the property owner is, who will perform the work and what, when and how the work will be done. Sketches, drawings, plans or other documentation of the work will be required for review. You may also be required to pay a permit or reveiw fee when you submit an application.
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Waiting during review process.
The majority of permit applications are processed with little delay. If necessary a Code Official may request additional information in order to complete their review. The Code Official will determine if your project is in compliance with the land use and/or construction codes that are applicable to your project.
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Receive results of review process.
If compliance with the code and other applicable regulations is determined, the application is approved and a permit is issued. If the Code Official determines that the proposed work does not comply with the applicable code(s), the application as submitted will be denied. If you are denied a permit, you can correct the Code violation(s) and resubmit for permit approval (a new application may be required and additional fees may apply). If you are unable to comply with the Zoning Code you may apply for a variance. If you are unable to comply with the UCC you may apply for a variation from the Construction Official. If you believe an error was made in the denial of your permit, you may appeal the Code Official's decision.
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Receive permit.
A Zoning Permit confirms that the specified use of a site or building is in compliance with the Borough's Zoning Regulations. A UCC or Building Permit is the document granting legal permission for you or your contractor to start construction. You must proceed as approved pursuant to the permit. Inspections required for your project will be indicated on the permit. You will be required to post the permit in a window or other prominent place at the construction site, keep a copy of the approved plans at the site and bring any proposed changes to the attention of the Code Official immediately. Changes will require a review and approval in the same manner as the original application and must be approved before being constructed.
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Arrange UCC construction inspections.
Each major phase of construction must be inspected by the Code Official to make certain the work conforms to the appropriate code, the building permit, and the approved plans. The UCC requires the Building Department be notified at least 24 hours in advance of the need for an inspection. When you phone or visit the Building Department to schedule an inspection, you must be able to provide the the property address and permit number.
- Receive Certificate. Once all construction inspections have been passed and UCC code compliance has been certified, the Construction Official will issue the appropriate certificate (i.e.,Occupancy, Temporary Occupancy, Approval, Compliance, etc.) to indicate same. This certificate is the formal document that marks the completion of your construction project and gives you permission to occupy or use the new or renovated structure with the knowledge that it has met the minimum safety requirements of the applicable UCC construction codes.
