No matter the type of construction projects you are working on, communication is one of the most important factors that will result in a successful outcome. Not only do you need clear communication with your New Jersey land improvement contractor, but you also need to have open lines of communication with your local municipality departments.
There are restrictions on how every piece of land can be used, based on how the area is zoned (for residential or commercial construction). Understanding these restrictions early will help you save money so that you can avoid expensive mistakes in the future.
Whether you are working on smaller residential upgrades or bigger land development projects, make sure that you are working hand-in-hand with your contractor and the local municipality to maintain regulatory compliance every step of the way.
Why You Need to Consult Your Municipality Before a Land Improvement Project
The local municipalities not only set the land use regulations, but they are also responsible for enforcing building codes and zoning laws. The goal is to make sure that safety is maintained at all times and that the construction practices are protecting sustainability in the area.
When you go through the process of getting approval, it will help you prevent delays, avoid fines, and minimize the risk of shutdowns during construction projects. Make sure to start these conversations as soon as possible, especially if you are dealing with any potential issues such as utility problems, soil instability, or water management requirements that should be addressed. Call a New Jersey land improvement contractor for help with everything from the permitting process to the actual excavation and construction.
Key Questions to Ask Your Municipality for Different Land Improvement Job Types
The quality of your questions will make a big difference in the overall outcome of your land improvement plan. You need to get information that is specific to your project. Consider putting together a list of questions to ask before breaking ground. These questions can help protect you as the property owner to minimize the risk of legal or financial problems in the future.
- What permits do we need for this project?
- How long will it take to get the necessary permits?
- Are there any specific rules that need to be followed relating to debris disposal or noise control?
- What environmental reports need to be filed?
- What are the necessary inspections for the work being done?
- What restrictions need to be followed for excavation depth or slope?
- How should we locate underground essential utilities before we start digging?
- What plans are required for erosion control or runoff prevention?
- Does regulatory compliance require soil testing or geotechnical reports?
- Which environmental reviews are needed for oil tank removal?
- Who takes care of the handling and disposal of contaminated soil?
- Will I be able to use the site for other land development projects in the future?
- What are the grading and drainage requirements that need to be followed for this piece of land?
- Will any boundary restrictions affect these plans?
- How do real estate zoning designations affect this project?
How to Prepare for Your Meeting with the Municipality
It’s a good idea to do a bit of preparatory work before you meet with the municipality. You’ll want to bring all necessary documents and information, including plans, blueprints, and previous site reports. Additional document requirements might include proof of ownership, surveys, and other applicable environmental records.
Your New Jersey land improvement contractor can help with gathering the necessary documents and assisting with municipality communications. We’ll make sure to prioritize your timelines and project goals every step of the way, and our team can even help with the permits and inspections as needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Dealing with Municipalities
These are a few things that you should always avoid when working with municipalities:
- Skipping approvals that are required
- Misinterpreting building code details
- Leaving some of the construction projects off the permit
- Ignoring potential issues that are brought up during the review
- Rushing the permitting process
- Not working with an experienced New Jersey land improvement contractor
Seek Guidance from an Experienced New Jersey Land Improvement Contractor
There’s no question that it’s a good investment to work with an experienced New Jersey land improvement contractor. Make sure that you hire a licensed and insured team with experience in the local area.
At Mikula, our crew is here to help with anything that you need. We offer full-service solutions, including demolition, excavation, oil tank removal, test pit excavation, and more. Contact us at your convenience to schedule a consultation to discuss your upcoming project. We’ll evaluate your needs and put together a detailed proposal to ensure a successful outcome.