FAQs • Westfield, NJ • CivicEngage

Do I need a construction permit to remove a tree?: The Building Department does not issue permits for tree removal, however Public Works does, please see Tree Preservation Plan & Tree Removal Application.

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Building Department

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1. When do I need a construction permit?: Unless the work is specifically identified as ordinary maintenance, a permit is necessary. Ordinary maintenance is defined at N.J.A.C. 5:23-2.7. If you have any doubts, please contact the Building Department.

2. Do I need a construction permit to replace my sidewalk or service walk?: The Building Department does not issue permits for sidewalks. Public sidewalks (usually adjacent to a road) require approvals and permits from Engineering. Service walks (the walkway usually from the road or public sidewalk to the front door) only needs to be compliant with coverage requirements in the Zoning Ordinance.

3. Do I need a construction permit to remove a tree?: The Building Department does not issue permits for tree removal, however Public Works does, please see Tree Preservation Plan & Tree Removal Application.

4. Do I need a construction permit to widen my driveway?: The Building Department does not issue permits for driveways. The zoning ordinance does limit their size, please refer to the Land Use Ordinance for specific details.

5. Where can I file for a construction permit or get an application?: The Building Department is located at 959 North Ave West. Forms are available at the counter or can be accessed electronically from the State website at Construction Permit Application. Please be sure to clearly print the information and provide an email address. If your project includes an addition, new structure, pool, deck, shed, patio etc. a zoning review is required. Please complete the Westfield Zoning Review Form and submit with your construction permit application. The entire file will be routed internally for zoning review.

6. How long will it take to get my permit?: Once the Building Department receives a complete application, we are obligated to review or deny the permit within 20 business days -- but in most cases it is much sooner. The review time depends upon the scope and complexity of the proposed work, the number of subcodes (building, electric, fire protection & plumbing) that need to review it, the quality of the submission, along with whatever applications are ahead of yours waiting to be reviewed. If your project requires Zoning, Engineering, Tree Preservation, Historic Preservation, or any other approvals, these must all be approved/obtained before the 20-business day clock starts in the Building Department.

7. How do I check the status of my permit once it is submitted?: You can track your application by creating a free account on the portal.

8. How much does a construction permit cost?: Permit fees vary depending upon the work being done. The fees are set by municipal ordinance and can be viewed via the website at §8-3. In addition to the municipal fee in the ordinance, the Town collects the State Training fees for the State of NJ with most permit applications. This fee is collected and sent to the State on a quarterly basis.

9. How can I pay for the construction permit?

Payments can be made by credit card*, in person with a check made payable to “Town of Westfield” at the Building Department counter, or mailed to:

Town of Westfield Building Department

959 North Avenue West

Westfield, NJ 07090

*If you provided an email address with your application you will receive a credit card payment link via email. There is a service fee collected by the company that administers this option.

10. How do I schedule an inspection?: Inspections can be scheduled via the portal. The portal allows you to propose three dates/times that are convenient for you. By creating a portal account and scheduling inspections online you will receive a confirmation for the inspection date/time. Inspections can also be scheduled by calling the office during business hours and speaking with a Building Department representative. Inspection requests can not be left on the voicemail system.

11. Who is responsible to get the permit, me, or my contractor?: The owner or his/her agent, a licensed engineer, architect, or plumbing, electrical or other contractor employed in connection with the proposed work can apply for a permit. If the application is by a person other than the owner in fee, it shall be accompanied by an affidavit of the owner or the authorized person making the application, that the proposed work is authorized by the owner in fee, and that the applicant is authorized to make such application. All issued permits shall remain the property of the owner even if the application was made by a contractor or authorized agent.