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Construction

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1. How do I view the status of a permit?

You can view the status of your permit online.

2. What type of improvements require a permit?

Interior work such as painting, paneling, tiling, replacement fixtures and/or cabinets do not require a permit. Replacing electrical wiring, plumbing, constructing or removing walls does require a permit. Permits are also required for decks, fences, and sheds.

3. If I need a permit, who should I contact?

Contact the Construction Department at 732-294-2053. The staff will guide you through the permit process and requirements. If your questions are of a technical nature, you will be asked to speak with the Subcode Officials.

4. Why is a permit necessary?

Permits are required to ensure that all work being performed is in compliance with the proper codes, and being constructed in a safe manner.

5. How do I go about obtaining a permit?

First you should contact the Construction Department for a list of criteria required for each specific type of work. Once you have all of the information/paperwork required, you can complete a construction permit application. Once this process has been completed, the Construction Staff will review your permit for the proper criteria and process for approvals.

6. If I need a permit for certain types of improvements, does that include my basement, or adding a pool?

Both basement work and a pool require a construction permit.

7. Do I need a certificate of occupancy?

A certificate of "approval" is issued on all permits/types of work once all the proper finals have been approved. A "certificate of occupancy" is issued on all new construction.

8. Do I need a zoning permit?

In the Township certain land uses are allowed in areas where such use is appropriate. Depending on the area and the use, a zoning permit may be necessary. A zoning permit is required for a new business or a business relocating to a new location. This requirement does not apply to a home-based business.

9. Do I need to retain an engineer or architect for my home improvements?

The code states that a homeowner may draw their own plans. It is strongly suggested that if a homeowner is unfamiliar with the codes and construction, they have an architect or engineer draw the plans.

10. Where do I find out about setback requirements?

Please contact the Zoning/Planning Department to learn about setback requirements.

11. What zone is my property in?

The Zoning/Planning Department can help you determine what zone your property is in. A representative can be reached at 732-294-2041.

12. How can I find out about water and sewer availability?

Contact the Freehold Township Water and Sewer Department at 732-294-2170.

13. Where do I find out about septic systems?

Septic system installation and requirements are handled through the Health Department. They can be reached at 732-294-2060.

14. Is my property in a flood plain?

Flood plain information is available through the Engineering Department at 732-294-2070.

15. How long does the Construction Department keep my permits?

A permit is kept in the Construction Department archives for the life of the dwelling.

16. How do I schedule a Construction Inspection?

Please make sure that you have all the necessary information available before calling. When you are ready, please call our Inspection line at 732-294-2053 between the hours of 7:30 am and 2:30 pm.

17. How can I contact Township staff by telephone?

• Certificates of Continuing Occupancy: 732-294-2053
• Construction (General): 732-294-2053
• Zoning (General): 732-294-2041
• Engineering (General): 732-294-2070
• Planning (General): 732-294-2070

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Department of Zoning & Housing Enforcement

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1. Where do I pick up applications for sheds, decks, fences, signs, etc.?

They are available at the Department of Zoning and Housing Enforcement, located in the Construction Building.

2. Where do I call to schedule a Certificate of Continued Occupancy (CCO)?

Call the Department of Zoning and Housing Enforcement at 732-294-2066 or 732-294-5109.

3. How long is a Certificate of Continued Occupancy (CCO) valid?

A certificate of continued occupancy issued for the resale of a property shall be valid for a period not to exceed 120 calendar days from the date of issuance or until there occurs a change of occupancy

A certificate of continued occupancy issued for the rental of a property shall be valid for a period not to exceed 60 calendar days from the date of issuance or until there occurs a change in occupancy.

4. How high can a fence be constructed?

A fence can be up to 3 feet high, except for side and rear yards, where it can be up to 6 feet in height.

Fences are not permitted in easements. Call 732-294-2066 for information on corner lots.

5. Can the fence be installed on the property line?

Yes, but we recommend a few inches inside the property.

6. Must the fence be installed with the "good side" out?

Yes.

7. How large of a shed can be constructed?

A shed can be a 1-story structure up to 192 square feet in area with a maximum height of 16 feet. It must be set back 5 or 10 feet from the property line, depending upon the zone.

8. How large can a detached garage be?

Garage size is dependent on the zone and existing garage space. For example: a 3-car garage up to 864 square feet may be permitted on some properties that have no existing garage space. Garages must be set back 5 or 10 feet from the property line, depending upon the zone.

9. What number do I call for a Code Enforcement complaint?

Contact the Department of Zoning & Housing Enforcement at 732-294-2066.

10. What are the snow removal regulations?

Snow and ice must be removed from all residential sidewalks located within close proximity to a public elementary or public middle school within 48 hours of snowfall. Commercial businesses must remove snow and ice from all commercial premises used by the public within 10 hours of snowfall.

See Chapter 278: Snow and Ice Removal § 278-1 Duty to remove.

11. Are temporary signs such as banners, streamers, window paintings, lawn signs, & wind sails permitted?

All temporary signs, displays, and all other forms of temporary or competitive advertising are strictly prohibited by Township Ordinance: 190-175.

12. Is a property survey required for all Zoning Permits?

Yes, a copy of a legible survey of the property (drawn to scale) indicating all existing and proposed buildings, site improvements, and structures is required.

13. Are zoning permits required for temporary residential storage pods?

Yes, zoning permits are required and are valid for 30 days and limited to 3 permits a year. Pods shall be located on the driveway at the farthest point from the street and be no closer than 10 feet from the property line. Pods are not to exceed 8 feet and 6 inches in height by 10 feet in width by 20 feet in length.

14. Are zoning permits required for driveway replacement or expansions?

Yes, zoning permits are required for all proposed driveway replacement or expansions, including cases where new blacktop is being placed on an existing driveway. All driveways must meet a 5-foot side yard setback requirement and must not cause a violation of the impervious coverage requirement of the zone.

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Engineering Department

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1. Do I need a permit to repave (resurface) my driveway?

A Zoning Permit is required from the Zoning Officer to repave or resurface your existing driveway.

2. Do I need a permit to widen my driveway?

If you are widening the curb and concrete apron, you will need an "Excavation within Right of Way" permit from the Township. If you are also widening the asphalt portion of your driveway, you will also need a Zoning Permit from the Zoning Officer.  Please contact the Engineering Department for details.

3. Do I need a permit if I am widening my asphalt driveway but not the curb and apron?

You will need a Zoning Permit from the Zoning Officer if you are only widening your asphalt driveway. However, you must first contact the Engineering Department regarding driveway width and maintaining a 5-foot distance from your side property line and not encroaching any easements.

4. How are streets selected each year for overlay (resurfacing)?

Each year, every street is inspected and assigned a rating number. The streets with the worst rating are selected based on the availability of funding.

5. Which sidewalks, apron and curbing are eligible for the reimbursement program?

Any sidewalk, apron and curbing for single-family residential properties which is defective or worn through normal wear and tear is eligible. Please refer to the Replacement Program Description for further information.

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

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2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

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3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

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4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

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5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

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6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

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Human Resources

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1. What is the mission of the Human Resources Department?

The Township of Freehold has approximately 250 full-time, 30 part-time, and 390 seasonal employees. The Human Resources Department is responsible for assisting the Township in achieving its mission by effectively managing its human resources. This involves wage and salary administration, benefits and position classification, recruitment and selection, employee relations, performance evaluations, workers’ compensation, and equal employment opportunity.

2. How can I find information on employment opportunities with the Township of Freehold?

You may either call the Human Resources Department directly at 732-294-2024, or if you are looking for a listing of civil service positions available in Freehold Township or in other municipalities or state agencies, connect to the New Jersey Department of Personnel homepage. Job vacancies for Freehold Township and for other municipal or state positions are also available in the Automated Labor Exchange (ALEX). ALEX, also known as the New Jersey Department of Labor Workforce New Jersey Public Information Network, can be accessed at all state unemployment offices.

For information on the requirements to be a Police Officer in Freehold Township, visit the Police Department.

3. What is the job application process with the Township of Freehold?

Freehold Township hires and retains personnel according to the guidelines of the New Jersey Department of Personnel. These guidelines were formerly called the Civil Service Regulations. Applicants for most vacant positions in the Township must file an application with the New Jersey Department of Personnel and may have to take a civil service examination. A small number of positions are not subject to the civil service regulations and are hired directly by the Township.

4. What are the benefits the Township of Freehold offers its employees?

The Township of Freehold provides excellent compensation and benefits for its employees. Some of the benefits include:

• Sick Leave
• Military Leave
• Vacation Leave
• Life Insurance
• Bereavement Leave
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Holidays Per Year
• Worker's Compensation Insurance
• Local Government Retirement Plan
• Health and Dental Insurance

5. What happens if I’m offered a job with the Township of Freehold?

If you are selected for hire by the Township of Freehold, you will be contacted by the Human Resources Department and a "conditional offer of employment" will be made based on the successful completion of a physical examination. Once a candidate has met all of the requirements and conditions of employment, a start date is scheduled.

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Landmark Designation

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1. Historic Preservation: What’s in it for me?

There is a growing market of homebuyers who appreciate historic architecture and who look for historic properties that are well maintained and have retained their historic integrity and architectural qualities. Historic Preservation regulation helps to improve the overall level of architectural quality in renovation projects, and this improvement influences the older building's market values to the extent that it effectively maintains and improves the historic architectural qualities of designated properties through the review process.

2. Does landmark status provide me protection from the actions of municipal or other governmental agencies that may threaten my house or property?

Yes. Municipal actions which would affect your property would be reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission, which would act as a "check" against harmful undertakings by the Township or any other governmental agency.

3. Do the provisions of the ordinance apply only to my house, or to my land and outbuildings as well?

The entire property, land and structures, are designated. However, in reviewing permit applications for the property, the Commission's main concern will be the historic structures on the property.

4. Under what circumstances will my property be subject to the review process of the Commission?

Review by the Historic Preservation Commission is required before a permit can be issued for any of the following work: 

• Demolition 
• Relocation of Structures 
• Changes in the exterior appearance by alteration, addition, or new construction 
• Site plan review or subdivision 
• Zoning variance requests 

Proper upkeep of any Landmark Site must be maintained as per Preventative Maintenance Ordinance Number 0-01-23-June 2001.

5. Will the Township regulate the exterior color of my structure?

Historic integrity must be maintained according to the "circa" (date/time frame) of the original construction of the building. The intent of the Commission is to encourage design that is compatible with the historic structure in scale, massing, materials and related features. As a Certified Local Government program, we are bound by the U.S. Department of Interior "Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings". Therefore, the colors of any structure that has Landmark status must be compatible with its age.

6. What about the interior of my house?

The Freehold Township Ordinance does not apply to interiors of any structures, or to ordinary repairs and maintenance.

7. Is there an appeal process?

Yes. All Appeals of Commission decisions are made to the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

8. Does landmark status make me eligible to receive financial support or favored tax status?

If your house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places you may be eligible for Federal Tax Credits. Unfortunately, New Jersey State law does not currently enable municipalities to grant favored tax treatment (abatement, exemptions, etc.) to designated historic structures; however, there is a bill in the State Assembly (Assembly Environment Committee—Assembly, No. 1172) that may enable you to recoup some monies if your house is designated a Landmark Site. This bill has been in front of the Assembly since March of 2000 but has not as yet been enacted into law.

9. On what basis will the Commission make decisions regarding proposed additions or alterations to my property?

In reviewing all applications, the Commission must follow the review criteria contained within Freehold Township Ordinance Number 18-60 thru 18-66, Land Use Ordinances. The intent of the Commission is to encourage design that is compatible with the historic structure in scale, massing, materials and related features.

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Planning Board Office

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1. Where do I pick up applications for sheds, decks, fences, signs, etc.?

They are available at the Building Department at 1 Municipal Plaza.

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Public Works

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1. What are the operating hours of the Recycling Center?

The center is open 8 am to 3 pm, on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. No Commercial Vehicles are allowed. Freehold Township residents only. Proof of residency is required.

Note: The center may close for or in preparation for Department of Public Works emergencies such as snow and ice removal.

2. Where is the Recycling Center located?

The Center is located at:
66 Jackson Mills Road
Freehold, New Jersey
Phone: 732-294-2160.

3. Does the Recycling Center have mulch available?

Yes. Residents can load their own vehicles for free or deliveries are available for a charge:

• $21 for 3 cubic yds (covers an area of 2 inches in depth by 20 by 25 feet.)
• $30 for 6 cubic yds (covers an area of 2 inches in depth by 20 by 50 feet)

It is requested that residents have exact amount if paying with cash.

Mulch is available for pick-up or delivery from April 15 until October 15

4. Are there special pick ups for brush and bulk?

The Township has an annual brush pickup in the spring and bulk pickup in the fall. Please see the schedule in this FAQ.

5. What can I do with grass clippings?

Rutgers University recommends cutting grass and leaving it on the lawn. Monmouth County Landfill accepts grass clippings. Call 732-922-8686.

6. Who do I call if my street light is out?

Call Jersey Central Power and Light at 800-662-3115

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Shade Tree

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1. A neighbor’s tree branches extends over my property - can you help?

The Township has no legal authority regarding tree disputes on private property.

2. Who trims the branches from street trees?

The homeowner is responsible for required tree pruning where the tree originates on private property. It is likely that greater than 95% of all Beautification street trees in the Township originate on private property. The Freehold Township Shade Tree Commission (FTSTC) recommends residents contact a NJ Board Certified Tree Expert (CTE) for all tree pruning concerns. It is assumed the consumer protections offered by the CTE Board control of CTE licensing are worthwhile. CTE listings can be found in the phone book under "Tree Services" or online.

3. Who takes care of fallen or broken hanging branches?

The property owner is responsible for any branches or debris that may fall from their trees. The Township conducts a yearly brush pick-up each spring: please check with Department of Public Works for the pick-up schedule. Brush may also be dropped off at the Recycling Center Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday between 8 am and 3 pm.

4. Who repairs sidewalk damage?

Freehold Township provides a program to assist homeowners in replacing the sidewalk and aprons in the public right-of-way. Learn more about the Sidewalk/Driveway Apron Replacement Program or contact the Township Engineering Department at 732-294-2070.

5. Who prunes tree branches in wires?

The local utility company in Freehold Township, JCP&L (First Energy), is responsible for removing branches near or in the electric wires. Do not attempt to trim trees near electric wires! Notify JCP&L at 1-800-662-3115 of any electric wire concerns.

6. Who removes the dead tree in front of my house?

The homeowner is responsible for the removal of trees located on private property. If trees are beyond the "home site" a permit is required. A "home site" is an area within 100 feet of the foundation of the house. In order to remove trees beyond the "home site," the homeowner must process a Tree Removal Permit (PDF) from the Shade Tree Department.

Two significant restrictions, whether within the "home site" or not, to the tree removal permit process are:

1. Whether the tree(s) is a "Heritage or Historic tree": A special Township ordinance restricts removal of Heritage or Historic trees. The Heritage Tree List (PDF) is on file in the Shade Tree office.
2. If the tree is within 25 feet of the edge of the right-of-way, a Tree Removal Permit must be approved before the actual tree removal. The township currently approves permits at no cost or the removal of dead trees.

7. How do I tell if my tree is alive?

A close inspection of tree branch tissue and the leaf buds. Environmentally stressed trees may cause the leaves to take longer to emerge than the surrounding tree's leaves. Call a Certified Tree Expert if in doubt.

8. Which trees are Street Beautification trees?

The trees planted symmetrically along the sidewalk, which are within 25 feet of the edge of the right-of-way (on private property), are Street Beautification trees.

9. What is the mulch ring around the base of my tree and can I use my string trimmer to cut the grass and weeds here?

Tree mulch rings installed and maintained to current arboricultural standards are simple and wonderfully beneficial to plant health. Mulch beds allow for very easy weed management. Mulch beds do not eliminate weeds but allow excellent soil conditions for tree vigor and for very easy weed management. All types of mechanical damage to tree trunk tissue (string trimmers/lawn mower decks, knife carving, etc.) cause the plant stress and can be avoided. A lawn area is a harsh condition for tree roots to compete for available water and nutrients. Creating generous plant beds (i.e. off the tree trunk collar and a maximum of 2 to 4 inches of mulch thickness) helps to avoid mechanical damage to the tree trunk.

10. Can I plant my home landscaping anywhere on my lot?

Plantings should be located off the property lines, off any easements (site triangle, utility, drainage, etc.) and plants should not be installed in the right-of-way, on township properties or in traffic site views. Allow sufficient space for the plants to grow to maturity.

11. What is the reason for a Street Beautification program?

The intent of the Shade Tree Commission is to beautify the frontage of all public roads in the Township. Many things about individual property lots will change over time; however, along the Township roadways, street trees exist which have been planted via the beautification program which started in the early 1960s.

12. What types of trees do you plant and why?

Recommendations from the nursery industry and from academic experts on the best tree types have adapted over time. The current revision to the Shade Tree Commission Approved Street Tree planting list is the desire to match the general conditions found throughout the Township and the 3 different potential growth space categories - Shade Trees, Flowering Trees and Fastigiate (Upright or Columnar) Trees - which should meet the differing situations found in many subdivisions. See Approved Street Tree Planting List (PDF) (in Latin and English). Visit the Arbor Day website for additional tree information.

13. When are beautification trees planted?

The current ordinance requires the developer to install the street beautification before the Certificate of Occupancy (CO) issuance. Having the trees installed before CO may not be practical in all situations, since the "home closing" and CO issuance and seasonal conditions can be on different time schedules. At the "home closing," homeowners typically sign an Occupancy Sign Off form, which delays the street tree installation until the appropriate planting cycle is available.

14. Do I need to water trees?

Yes - most newly installed plants require above-average watering. Typically, additional watering for a newly planted tree is recommended, especially during the first 2 years. The current understanding of balled and burlapped trees is: about 90% of the tree root system was left at the nursery where the tree was dug. The installed tree has about 10% root surface to absorb water. While too much water can rot tree roots, a thoughtful balance of extra water is typically needed for newly planted trees, especially for the first 2 years.

15. Why do tree roots "like" my sanitary line?

If a tree is growing well, a survival mechanism is to explore the soil for supplies of oxygen, nutrients and water. It is our belief that tree roots do not cause sanitary line leaks. However, if a water vapor source or a water leak is available, the tree root will seek the water location as a survival reaction. There is doubt at this point, given an available water vapor source or a leak, that the tree root can make a minor problem significantly worse. When root blockage situations are suspected, the homeowner is strongly advised to regularly apply root inhibition products to sanitary lines, carefully following label instructions.

16. Why can’t I grow grass under my Shade Tree?

It is more difficult to grow "full-sun quality grass" under the shade of a tree. The recommendation is to make the tree bed larger, proportionate to the tree size, following current arboricultural standards. Decaying organic matter (mulch) covering the root system of trees is excellent for tree health and can be far less frustrating than trying to grow grass in the shade.

17. Does the Shade Tree Commission have a Homeowner’s Guide?

Yes: see the Homeowner's Guide.

18. Why does the power company have to make such a large hole through my street tree?

To maintain your and the neighborhood's electric supply. This continuing situation is where trees with the greatest potential growth space have been planted right under the overhead utility wire. The "rub" is that the tree's survival mechanism continues to grow branches into the best light source - which is right where the overhead wires are! We have not discovered a usable solution for this continuing problem. Do not plant trees with large potential growth space under the overhead wires.

19. What does it mean to be a “Tree City USA?”

Four separate standards or criteria have to be followed by the municipality to qualify it as a Tree City. It must have:

• A Shade Tree Commission
• A Community Tree Ordinance
• A Tree Program, minimum $2 per capita
• Arbor Day Observance and Proclamation

20. How long has Freehold Township been a Tree City?

Since 1981.

21. What about replacement trees?

The final funding year for the Township Beautification program was Spring 2003.

However, while it is a hope that someday new funding will become available the Shade Tree Commission is maintaining a resident call-in tree replacement request list. Please notify the Commission of empty planting locations.

22. How do I tell what kind of tree I have?

The short answer is, Experience. And you can visit the Arbor Day website for helpful tree identification links.

23. What do I do about hornets' nests or bees?

Please do not agitate or disturb the nests. Hornets are especially aggressive. Keep the kids from throwing stones and such at the nest - hornet stings hurt and may lead to breathing problems if the person has an allergic reaction (anaphylactic shock). Getting stung by agitating the nest is not the best way to find this out. If the tree originates on private property, it is the responsibility of the homeowner. Call a certified pesticide applicator company.

24. How do I get a Plaque at DPMA?

Simply fill out the plaque application (linked to this site), attach a check with the current donation amount, and the Township will notify you by mail when the plaque/tree have been installed.

25. Where is the Township right-of-way?

There is no single easy answer. Each property location can have specific differences that do not apply to the next location. Individual home survey plans associated with the tax maps should lead to a close understanding of the specific property line location and/or to the township right-of-way location. Licensed Surveying produces exact positions.

26. Does my tree have a disease?

Natural tree bark characteristics (on trees like the London Plane) can look like a disease to many people. Excessive leaf fall or too little leaf emergence in the springtime could be a disease. Accurate diagnosis of disease, pest or cultural problems in trees takes experience. Please call your local certified tree expert.

27. Why is my tree dead?

First check for mechanical damage to the tree trunk, and call your local certified tree expert.

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Tick-Borne Diseases

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1. What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is caused by bacteria that are spread to humans through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks. Lyme disease can cause serious joint, heart or central nervous system problems if it is not recognized early in the disease process and treated appropriately.

2. How common is Lyme disease nationwide and in New Jersey?

Lyme disease is the most commonly reported tick-borne disease in the United States, accounting for more than 95% of all cases of reported tick-borne disease. National statistics on Lyme disease are available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Between 1981 (when Lyme disease became reportable in the state) and 2005, over 32,000 cases have been reported in New Jersey. During the past 5 years, New Jersey has averaged of over 2,750 cases annually and in 2005, reported 3,363 Lyme disease cases, the highest number ever recorded in the state. Lyme disease is considered endemic in all 21 New Jersey counties.

3. What should I do if I find a tick on me?

The longer a tick remains attached to someone, the greater the chance it will be able to spread a disease-causing agent. Any attached tick should be removed as soon as possible using fine-point tweezers. The tick should not be squeezed or twisted, but grasped close to the skin and pulled straight out with steady pressure.

4. After I remove an attached tick, should I have it identified?

See the Tick Identification Resources.

5. Should I be medically treated after removing an attached tick?

The removal of a tick alone does not warrant medical treatment with antibiotics. Look for the development of a red rash, which may be an early symptom of Lyme disease. Such a rash, called erythema migrans, often starts as a flat or raised red area and slowly expands over several days. It may have a partial central clearing. Be aware, however, that not all infected individuals develop a rash. Other symptoms may include fatigue, headache, neck stiffness, pain or stiffness in muscles or joints, slight fever, swollen glands, or conjunctivitis. If you have a tick bite followed by a rash or any of these other symptoms, consult your physician.

6. How can I prevent diseases spread by ticks?

Learning how to recognize and avoid tick-infested areas is the best way of preventing exposure to ticks and tick-borne diseases. However, people working or recreating in tick-infested areas can reduce the chance of being bitten and acquiring a tick-borne disease by always following proper personal protective and prevention measures. You can reduce the number of ticks around your home by removing high grass, weeds, leaf litter, and woody undergrowth from around your home. Pesticides that kill ticks can be applied to your yard as a last resort if large numbers of ticks are present. More suggestions can be found at Protecting Your Home.