It is the goal of the South Orange Building Department to ensure that all construction is code compliant for the safety and welfare of the township’s residents and visitors.  

Some of the department’s responsibilities include the issuing of all construction permits for Building, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire applications and performing the required inspections for code compliance and then issuing the proper certificate once the project has been completed. 

The South Orange Building Department is open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  The department is responsible for ensuring that all construction work in the Township complies with the requirements of the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code and all Township Ordinances.

Uniform Construction Code

The Uniform Construction Code is administrated by the Construction Official, and includes the Building, Electrical, Plumbing, and Fire Subcode Officials and Inspectors, which serve to enforce the various codes adopted by the Uniform Construction Code. Construction permits are required for most projects in strict accordance with the requirements of the State of New Jersey Uniform Construction Code, N.J.A.C. 5:23.

NJ Division of Consumer Affairs - Homeowner Notice

• Contractor Compliance Checklist
• Final Payment

o    State law:  Final inspections are required before final payment is made to contractor.

Permits, Applications & Guidelines

• For permit applications; see the  the Permit Application page under Building Department; How do I…?  South Orange has a list of comprehensive guidelines for contractors and homeowners alike.  Click here.
• Homeowners/Contractors must post the placard given with every permit in a conspicuous location on the job site and keep the approved plans and specifications at the building site.
• Buying or selling a home?  Submit an OPRA (Open Public Records Act) request form to the Clerks Office and we will be happy to send you information regarding permits.