How Best to Contact Us
Due to the extremely heavy volume, we encourage and request all residents to communicate with this Office in electronic format. This will facilitate the process as Officials/Inspectors are generally out on the road and not available to take requests during that time. Communication with the Construction Office may be done by the following preferred methods:
- Our preferred method of requesting all inspections and filing all complaints, etc is to use SDL Online Portal. This will start an electronic paperwork trail. Information on the SDL Portal is available at this link; (also look for a new FAQ page about how better to navigate the SDL Portal coming soon.)
- The next best method of contact for inspection related items, questions for plan reviewers or inspectors is via email. Emails regarding inspections must be sure to include the following information: Permit #, which inspection type you are looking for, 3 dates (no time frame available) you wish to have inspection and the address of the property to be inspected.
Who to Contact with Construction Related Questions
- Electrical Related - Electrical Subcode Official Mike Stallone x 7673
- Fire Related - Fire Subcode Official Jack Daniels x7678
- Plumbing Related - Acting Plumbing Subcode Official Mike Wright x 7672
- Building related - Building Subcode Official Jim Megna X7017
- Fire Prevention Related - Fire Marshal Jim Hall x7179
- Housing |Rental | Property Transfer - Mike Stallone x 7673
SDL Online Permit Portal
To facilitate the permit process the Code Enforcement Office is transitioning to Ewing's SDL Online Portal and encourages applicants to use it also. With the use of the Portal, there is no longer a need to travel to the municipal building, or make phone calls to department offices. Instead, you can find resources you need online.
- Click here to view detailed instructions for use. (printable copy)
- Click here to view the status of your application.
- Click here to request an inspection.
- Click here to file a Code Enforcement complaint
Responsibilities
- Review all applications and plans submitted for new construction and/or alterations in accordance with the Uniform Construction Code and its adoption of various codes related to building, electrical, elevator, fire, HVAC and plumbing.
- Inspect all residential, commercial and industrial buildings during the various phases of construction. No work shall begin until a permit – if needed – has been issued.
- Investigate all buildings and structures which have been damaged to ensure they can be safely occupied.
Local Contractor License
All commercial contractors working in the Township of Ewing are required to hold a Ewing Township Contractor’s License [renewed annually] as well as an NJ State Contractor’s License. Residential contractors need only an NJ State Home Improvement License.
Referenced Codes
The Construction Office administers and enforces the following codes to protect the health and safety of Ewing Township residents.
NJ Uniform Construction Code (UCC)
The UCC, the state’s approved building, plumbing, electrical and fire sub-codes, are maintained by the NJ Department of Community Affairs, Division of Codes and Standards.
Fire Prevention
The State Fire Prevention Code, as adopted by the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety.
Required Permits
Emergency Work can start immediately once our office has been notified. The property owner has 72 hours to submit the appropriate permit requests[s]. Valid emergencies include roof leaks, heater repairs / replacements and other conditions which may affect the safety of the occupant[s].
Minor Work permits are required before work begins. Minor work includes 25% or less of existing roof or siding being replaced, complete replacement of plumbing fixtures, replacement of electrical system[s] and / or panel boxes, installation of fire alarms or suppression systems and low-voltage communication systems.
Regular Work permits are required before work begins. Regular permits cover work such as construction of new buildings, additions, renovations involving more than 25% of existing roofing or siding, decks, pools and storage sheds of 100ft2 or more.
Permits are not required for day-to-day repairs and / or improvements including painting, window and door replacement using new material of the same dimensions and carpet installations.
Required Plans
Residential drawings can be done by the homeowner if the unit is a single family dwelling and the homeowner resides at the location of the proposed construction. The plans must be submitted in duplicate, accompanied by the appropriate technical applications, and are subject to the approval of the code official.
Commercial drawings must be completed by an NJ-licensed architect or engineer and submitted in duplicate with the appropriate technical applications. Commercial applicants are also required to submit final “as builts” in digital form on a CD.