Navigating Local Permits and Regulations for Paving Projects

Written By Gaurav Garg

Navigating local permitting is crucial for a smooth paving project in Middlesex County. Each township has its own rules and processes. This guide explains the steps for Edison, Piscataway, and North Brunswick. It also covers required inspections and zoning considerations. Use this information to ensure your project meets all permit requirements.

Why Local Permits Matter?

Before you hire a paving contractor or buy materials, know that paving work often changes the landscape or street surface. Townships require permits to confirm plans meet safety, environmental, and zoning rules. Missing a permit can lead to fines, work stoppages, or costly rework. By following township rules, you avoid delays and ensure quality.

General Middlesex County Requirements

If your project involves a county road or right-of-way, you need a county road permit. The Middlesex County Office of Public Works issues road permits for paving on county roads. To apply:

  1. Submit engineered plans.

  2. Provide proof of insurance naming the county as additional insured.

  3. Pay applicable fees.

  4. Notify the Permit Clerk when work starts and when it ends so inspectors can verify compliance with county specifications.

Important Links

Middlesex County Road Permit page
https://www.middlesexcountynj.gov/government/departments/department-of-transportation/office-of-public-works/road-permit

Edison Township: Paving Permits and Processes

Edison is one of the largest townships in Middlesex County. Its permitting process involves multiple departments: Zoning, Engineering, and Public Works. Follow these steps to comply with Edison’s requirements.

Determine Project Scope

  • Driveway or Parking Lot Paving
    Any paving on private property qualifies as a “site improvement.” You need a Site Improvement Permit (SIP) from the Engineering Department.

  • Work in Public Right-of-Way
    If any paving extends to or affects a public street, you must also get a Street Opening Permit from Public Works.

  • Zoning Impact
    Paving that increases impervious surface may change runoff patterns. It may trigger a zoning review to confirm compliance with setback and coverage rules.

Obtain Zoning Approval

  1. Complete a Zoning Permit Application (available from the Zoning Division).

  2. Submit a plot plan showing existing and proposed structures, distances to lot lines, utilities, and easements.

  3. Pay the zoning review fee (varies by project type).

  4. Allow up to 20 days for review by the Zoning Officer.

  5. Once approved, proceed to the Site Improvement Permit.

Apply for a Site Improvement Permit (SIP)

  1. Download the Site Improvement Permit Application and checklist from the Engineering Department.

  2. Prepare two copies of construction plans. Plans must include grading, drainage details, and paving specifications. They must be prepared by a New Jersey–licensed engineer or architect.

  3. Complete the SIP application form and assemble these documents:

    • Zoning approval letter

    • Plot plan

    • Construction plans

    • Soil erosion control plan (if required)

    • Tree removal approvals (if applicable)

  4. Submit everything to the Engineering Division at the Municipal Building.

  5. Pay the SIP application fee (application fee plus a cash bond). Fees vary; check the fee schedule.

  6. Allow up to 30 days for review by the Engineering Department.

Street Opening Permit (If Work Affects a Public Street)

  1. Fill out the Street Opening Application from Public Works.

  2. Attach a detailed sketch of the work location, depth, and dimensions.

  3. Provide a diagram tying the opening to a fixed point or intersection.

  4. Pay the administrative fee ($200) plus a deposit ($2,500 minimum for paved streets).

  5. Submit proof of insurance naming Edison Township as additional insured.

  6. Obtain approval before starting any excavation or paving.

  7. When work is complete, notify Public Works for an inspection to verify proper restoration.

Construction Permit (If Required)

Some paving projects need a Construction Permit from the Construction Department:

  • Paving that forms part of a larger building alteration or structural addition may require a Construction Permit.

  • Submit the approved SIP, zoning letter, and any required subcode approvals (electrical, plumbing).

Inspections

After permits are issued:

  1. Site Inspection: Verifies subgrade, drainage structures, and compaction.

  2. Pavement Inspection: Confirms asphalt mix, density, and thickness.

  3. Final Inspection: Ensures all work meets township and county standards.

  4. Certification: When approved, the permit is closed, and any bond is released after one year if no issues arise.

Important Links

Piscataway Township: Permit Steps for Paving

Piscataway’s permitting process is divided among Zoning, Engineering, and Building. Follow these steps to navigate Piscataway’s requirements.

Assess Right-of-Way Impact

  • Private Property Only
    If driveway or lot paving stays entirely on private property, you may not need a Street Opening Permit but should check zoning rules.

  • Right-of-Way Impact
    Any work in the right-of-way (curbs, gutters, driveway apron) requires a Street Opening Permit from the Engineering Division.

Zoning Permit Application

  1. Visit the Piscataway Zoning Division (Public Works Building, 505 Sidney Road).

  2. Complete the Zoning Permit Application; residential fee is $40, non-residential $75.

  3. Provide a property survey with the proposed paving area.

  4. Submit two sets of building plans (if applicable) and details of existing conditions (trees, utilities).

  5. Allow up to 20 days for Zoning Office approval; call (732) 562-6570 to check status.

Building Permit (If Required)

  • If the paving is part of a larger construction project (garage addition or building addition), a Building Permit is needed.

  • Submit a Construction Permit Application with approved zoning.

  • Pay fees per the fee schedule.

  • Schedule inspections for any structural components.

Street Opening Permit (Engineering Division)

  1. Fill out the Street Opening Permit Application (Engineering Division).

  2. Provide a detailed sketch of the proposed opening, tied to a fixed point or intersection.

  3. Enclose the application fee ($75 per opening) plus a cash bond ($15 per square foot).

  4. Submit proof of insurance naming Piscataway Township as additional insured.

  5. Notify Engineering at least 48 hours before starting work.

  6. When work is complete, notify Engineering for a final inspection and restoration check.

Engineering Review and Approval

  • Engineering reviews street opening submissions and zoning documents for drainage impact.

  • Pay any stormwater management fees or escrows as required.

  • Once approved, proceed with paving and restoration to township specifications.

Important Links

North Brunswick Township: Steps for Paving Projects

In North Brunswick, the Community Development Department oversees most permits. Follow these steps for compliance.

Check Driveway vs. Road Work

  • Driveway Paving
    If you pave a private driveway, apply for a Driveway Permit.

  • Street Paving or Cutting
    If your project touches a public street, you need a Road Opening Permit.

Zoning Considerations

  • Increased impervious coverage may trigger zoning review.

  • Certain zoning districts limit driveway width and impervious percentage.

  • Obtain a Zoning Permit if required before any building or paving work. Contact (732) 247-0922 ext 440.

Driveway Permit Application

  1. Download the Driveway Permit form from the North Brunswick website.

  2. Provide a site plan showing existing and proposed driveway slopes, grading, and drainage details.

  3. Include property owner and contractor information with New Jersey license numbers.

  4. Pay the permit fee (varies by location and scope).

  5. Submit to Community Development at 710 Hermann Road.

  6. Allow 10–15 business days for review.

Road Opening Permit (If Cutting a Public Street)

  1. Complete the Road Opening Permit Application.

  2. Attach a detailed sketch of the proposed opening, with dimensions.

  3. Enclose a non-refundable application fee ($75 per opening) and a cash bond ($15 per square foot).

  4. Provide a certificate of insurance naming North Brunswick Township as additional insured.

  5. Notify Community Development and the Traffic Safety Division at least 48 hours before work.

  6. After work is complete, request a final inspection to confirm proper restoration.

Building Permit (If Part of a Larger Project)

  • If the paving is part of new construction or structure modification, secure a Building Permit.

  • Submit approved zoning documents, construction plans, and contractor license.

  • Inspections by the Building Regulations and Fire Officials may be required.

Important Links

Zoning and Inspections: Common Considerations

Across all townships, certain themes repeat:

  1. Impervious Coverage

    • Paving increases impervious surface.

    • Zoning rules limit maximum coverage and require minimum green space.

    • Impervious changes may require stormwater mitigation (e.g., swales or permeable pavers).

  2. Setbacks and Easements

    • Driveways and parking areas must maintain required setbacks from property lines and easements.

    • Confirm no structures or utilities are within the proposed paving area.

  3. Bond and Fees

    • Street Opening Permits usually require a performance bond held for 12 months to ensure proper restoration.

    • Zoning, SIP, and building fees vary; always check the latest fee schedules online.

  4. Inspections


    • Engineering Inspection: Verifies proper base preparation, compaction, and drainage.

    • Paving Inspection: Checks asphalt mix, thickness (2–3 inches for driveways; 4–5 inches for commercial lots), and smoothness.

    • Final Inspection: Ensures the pavement ties into existing surfaces correctly and meets ADA or zoning requirements.

    • Some townships may require separate inspections for stormwater controls and ADA compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • It depends on your township. In Edison, any new driveway paving qualifies as a Site Improvement and requires an SIP. In Piscataway, a driveway that does not alter the right-of-way or increase impervious coverage might not need a Street Opening Permit but may need a Zoning Permit if coverage limits change. In North Brunswick, a Driveway Permit is required even for private property work. Always check local rules.

  • Edison: Zoning review up to 20 days; Engineering review (SIP) up to 30 days; Street Opening Permit up to 10 days.
    Piscataway: Zoning review 15–20 days; Engineering (Street Opening) 7–10 days.
    North Brunswick: Driveway and Road Opening Permits usually 10–15 business days.

    Timelines vary with application completeness and backlog.

    • Edison:

      • Zoning Permit: Fee varies by project.

      • SIP Application: Application fee plus cash bond.

      • Street Opening Permit: $200 application fee plus $2,500 bond (minimum).

    • Piscataway:

      • Zoning Permit: $40 (residential) / $75 (non-residential).

      • Street Opening: $75/application plus $15 per square foot bond.

    • North Brunswick:

      • Driveway Permit: Fee varies; contact Engineering.

      • Road Opening: $75/application plus $15 per square foot bond.
        Contact each township for current rates.

    • Engineering Inspection: Verifies proper base preparation, compaction, and drainage.

    • Paving Inspection: Checks mix design, thickness, and finish of asphalt.

    • Final Inspection: Ensures tie-in to existing surfaces and compliance with ADA or zoning requirements.
      Failure to schedule inspections can lead to permit revocation.

  • No. Starting without required permits can result in fines, stop-work orders, and the need to remove completed work. Always wait for issued permits and approved plans.

Conclusion

Navigating NJ township paving regulations requires careful planning and coordination with local departments. By following the steps outlined for Edison, Piscataway, and North Brunswick, you ensure compliance and avoid costly delays. For direct assistance or a free estimate, contact Cross Country Paving. Our team is ready to guide you through every step.

Important Links

Gaurav Garg
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