Plainfield, NJ Building Safety: Building Permits (2026)

Plainfield uses two permits in sequence. The first is the development permit issued by the Zoning Officer under § 17:8-1(A) of the Municipal Code. It applies even where a construction permit or approving authority action is not required, so the Zoning Officer can oversee fences, swimming pools, sheds and other site elements. The code says a development permit is a prior approval for issuance of a construction permit, and that issuing a construction permit or certificate of occupancy is deemed to require a development permit. The second is the construction permit under the State Uniform Construction Code, Building Subcode, which § 6:1-1 adopts. The Division of Building and Construction administers it through the Construction Official (§ 2:10-5).

Application requirements are specific. For a new structure or addition, the applicant files three sets of plot plans, building floor plans and architectural elevations, signed and sealed by a New Jersey licensed professional, except that the owner of a single family dwelling can prepare and sign the plans and file an affidavit. No development permit issues until final approval by the appropriate approving authority, and a variance needs a written order first. The City Engineer reviews grading and drainage before issuance. Where a Certificate of Appropriateness is required under Article X, it comes first.

Construction permit fees are printed in § 2:10-6C. New construction is $0.0395 per cubic foot with a $75 minimum. Renovations, alterations, repairs, re-roofing and re-siding are $24 per $1,000 of estimated cost up to $50,000, then $18 per $1,000 from $50,001 to $100,000 and $17 per $1,000 above $100,000. A shed or accessory structure to an R-5 up to 600 square feet is $80, and over 600 square feet is $150. An above ground pool is $75 and an inground pool $250. Plan review is 25 percent of the permit fee, and renewal is 10 percent of the original fee with a $75 minimum. The Construction Official makes the final decision on estimated cost. Appeals of enforcing agency decisions go to the Union County Board of Construction Appeals within 15 days (§ 2:10-6B).