NORTH BRUNSWICK – With the arrival of spring, North Brunswick’s Department of Community Development is reminding residents about local property maintenance regulations while encouraging “spring cleaning” of all outdoor areas.
Of particular note is a “top five” list of the most common violations that the department enforces throughout the year, according to information provided by Michael Hritz, director of the department: Uncut grass that is not regularly maintained; fence sections which have fallen or are damaged; cars with flat tires, disabled or otherwise in a state of disrepair; overgrown brush and tree limbs that are low or hanging and creating a danger; outside storage in the front and side yards including tires, auto parts, construction materials, landscaping equipment and furniture.
Code enforcement officers will inspect properties throughout the township for compliance.
“This is an ideal time to strengthen our neighborhoods with a collective spring cleaning,” Hritz said in the statement.“It also perfectly aligns with our fourth annual community yard sales in May.”
Yard sale information and registration is through the municipal website.
Residents are also reminded that the addition of fences, sheds, pools and other accessory structures on residential properties requires a zoning permit, and in many cases, a building permit as well, Hritz said in the statement. Of particular concern are new types of temporary above-ground pools that are being marketed at home centers and discount shopping stores. These metal frame pools may be seasonal and easily installed but they require permits nonetheless.
“The Uniform Construction Code regulates any pool that may contain more than 24 inches of water,” construction official Tom Paun said in the statement. “These pools are popular and fairly inexpensive but they still pose a risk and require fences, permits and inspections.”
Installation of fences and other structures without permits can create undue stress for homeowners.
“We support home and yard improvements, but it’s important for residents to call, email, or visit our office before purchasing and installing something they later find out doesn’t comply,” zoning officer Mike Proietti said in the statement.
An average zoning permit costs $30, which is attributable to most fences and small sheds. Larger sheds and pools also require a building permit according to state statute and vary depending on the size and scope of the work being done. The department has produced instruction sheets for fence, shed and pool installations, available in the department office on the second floor of the municipal building at 710 Hermann Road, and on the township website at northbrunswicknj.gov.
For more information, call 732-247-0922, ext. 440.