Planning & Zoning Information
The mission of the Raritan Township Planning and Zoning Department is to plan, guide and coordinate land development in a manner that strengthens the local economy, improves and protects the quality of the environment and enhances the overall quality of life and the well-being of current and future generations.
This office provides consistent policy advice to assist in understanding and addressing key land use issues and priorities. We work toward implementing the 2008 Master Plan, while encouraging citizen participation in the planning process, assuring a firm and expedient approval and permitting process, and promoting the principles of smart growth and the Land Development Code which guides the development regulations
This office provides administrative and technical support to the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Adjustment, and the Technical Review Committee. We accept all application for site plan, subdivision, variance and informal plans. To help facilitate the process, the application forms and guidelines are available on the Township’s website. Board agendas, minutes, land development applications and Board resolutions are also kept in the Planning and Zoning Office and are available to the general public.
The Planning Board processes applications for “permitted uses” for subdivisions and site plans. The Planning Board also prepares the Master Plan. Any amendments have to be submitted to the Planning Board for their review. The Planning Board meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the court room at the Municipal Building.
The Zoning Board hears cases for “non-permitted uses” and variances. They are the entity that grants a use variance. The zoning ordinance establishes specific requirements for a zone which regulates uses for that zone, setbacks, and other regulations specific to a zone. The Zoning Board meets the first and third Thursday of each month at 7:00pm in the court room at the Municipal Building.
The Township Zoning and Planning Office is responsible for enforcement of the Land Development Code and selective General Ordinances, reviewing changes to Property Site Plans, issuing Zoning Permits, Change in Use/Occupancy Permits, Fence/Wall Permits, Sign Permits and Temporary Sign or Banner Permits. We process approximately 65 permits a month. The Zoning Officer also assists residents in determining if a proposed project/change in use is permitted by the Land Development Code.
Common Zoning FAQ
When do I need to apply for a zoning permit?
A zoning permit is required for all types of development or improvements to your property, whether you are adding, replacing or relocating.
This includes the following but is not limited to:
- New Construction (Dwellings)
- Additions
- Fences
- Garages
- Patios
- Walkways
- HVAC & Generator Units
- Decks
- Finished Basements
- Pools (Above & In-Ground)
- Hot Tubs
- Driveways
- Sheds
- Pergolas & Gazebos
- Commercial Change of Use or Occupancy
- Commercial Signage
How long is the processing of a zoning permit?
The process period time is 10 business days from a completed submission. Please be advised that the department will always try to complete in less time but the department is short-staffed and other factors are involved, such as volume and Board matters.
I need a copy of my property survey. Does the Township retain a copy for me?
The Township does not have a survey on file for every property within the Township. You can inquire to our office to research if one is on file. If there is no record on file, you will need to hire a licensed professional surveyor to survey your property.
*Please note the Township cannot recommend any professionals such as surveyors or contractors.*
My business is moving into the Township. Do I need to file for permits?
Yes. This process is what we call a Certificate of Reoccupancy/Continuing Occupancy (CCO). This process includes the Zoning department, the Fire Marshal's office and the Construction department. We understand if you are not completing any construction work at the site but all three (3) departments are always included.
All required forms along with step-by-step instructions can be found by CLICKING HERE
*Please be advised, if your business is food/retail, a copy of Hunterdon County Health Department approval is required.*
Can I convert my garage into a living space?
No. A garage can only be used to house vehicles. It cannot be a living space.
I want to remove trees on my property. Is there a permit for this?
Yes. The Township Committee adopted an ordinance for tree removal and replacement in the Spring of 2024.
There are a few factors to determine if a permit is requied, such as whether the tree is dead, has infectious disease/infestation, or poses a safety risk. For more information, please see the ordinance section.
To review or complete a tree replacement permit application, please click here.
My Neighbor and I are having a dispute regarding the boundary line of our properties. Can the Zoning Department advise on the issue?
Unfortunately, no. The Zoning department does not advise on matters like this. Boundary disputes are personal/civil matters and are not within the jurisdiction of the Township. (Unless a municipal boundary is the center of issue.) Contacting an attorney or your title company may help.
A tree in my neighbor's yard hangs over my fence into my yard. I am afraid that a tree limb or the tree will fall into my yard and cause damage. Can the Township enforce any maintaince?
No. This matter is not a zoning issue. This is also a personal/civil matter where consulting an attorney may help. The Township has no control or jurisdiction.