Home Improvement Permits in Cherry Hill, NJ

Thinking about remodeling your kitchen, adding a deck, or finishing your basement in Cherry Hill? Before you pick up a hammer, you need to understand the township's permit requirements. This guide explains when you need a permit, how to apply, and what projects you can do without one.

When Do You Need a Permit?

Cherry Hill Township requires a building permit for most construction work, including structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, and mechanical systems. The general rule is simple: if you are changing the structure, systems, or footprint of your home, you almost certainly need a permit.

Projects that require a permit include:

• New home construction, additions, and accessory structures (sheds, garages, carports)
• Interior remodeling that involves moving walls, changing room layouts, or structural work
• Electrical work, including new circuits, panel upgrades, and rewiring
• Plumbing work, including new fixtures, water heater replacement, and sewer line work
• HVAC installation or replacement (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)
• Roofing replacement (most cases require a permit)
• Decks, porches, patios, and pergolas
• Demolition of any structure
• Grading or earthwork disturbing 500 or more square feet of land
• Tree removal for trees 8 inches or more in diameter at breast height (outside 15 feet of structures)

What Does NOT Require a Permit?

Some routine maintenance and minor projects are exempt from permitting under New Jersey Uniform Construction Code regulations. These include:

• Painting, wallpapering, and interior trim work
• Replacement of glass in windows or doors
• Floor covering (carpet, tile, hardwood) covering less than 25% of a room's floor area
• Cabinet refacing or replacement (without structural or plumbing changes)
• Minor porch or stoop repairs that do not involve roof support
• Fencing (though height and setback restrictions apply — check zoning)

When in doubt, call the Cherry Hill Construction Department. A quick phone call can save you from expensive fines or having to undo work later.

The Permit Application Process

Applying for a permit in Cherry Hill involves several steps. Here is what to expect:

1. Determine if a zoning permit is needed first. Many construction projects require a zoning permit before a building permit can be issued. The zoning office checks setbacks, height limits, lot coverage, and other land-use regulations.
2. Prepare your documents. You will typically need detailed construction plans, site plans, and specifications. For simple projects like a water heater replacement, the contractor's documentation may be sufficient.
3. Submit your application. Applications are submitted to the Cherry Hill Construction Department, located at the Municipal Building at 820 Mercer Street. Many applications can be submitted in person or by mail.
4. Plan review. The township reviews your plans for code compliance. This can take several days to several weeks depending on the complexity of the project.
5. Permit issuance. Once approved, you pay the permit fee and receive your permit. Post it visibly at the job site.
6. Inspections. As work progresses, you will need to schedule inspections at key milestones (foundation, framing, electrical rough-in, final).
7. Certificate of Occupancy or Approval. Once all inspections pass, the township issues a final approval.

Working with Licensed Contractors

In New Jersey, most contractors must be licensed and registered with the state. Before hiring anyone for a permitted project:

• Verify that the contractor holds a valid New Jersey Home Improvement Contractor license.
• Check that they carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage.
• Ask for references and review their recent work.
• Get a written contract that includes the scope of work, timeline, and payment schedule.
• Confirm that the contractor will pull the permit (not you). Most reputable contractors handle permits as part of their service.

For more on finding reliable help, see our guide to contractors in Cherry Hill.

Permit Fees

Permit fees in Cherry Hill are based on the estimated cost of construction. The fee schedule is set by the state Uniform Construction Code and includes separate fees for building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. As a rough estimate, expect to pay between $50 and $200 for a simple permit (like a water heater) and significantly more for major renovations. The township's Construction Department can provide a fee estimate for your specific project.

Why Permits Matter

Some homeowners skip permits to save time or money. That is a risk that can come back to haunt you. Unpermitted work can:

• Cause problems when you sell your home. Buyers and their attorneys will ask about permits for major work.
• Result in fines and orders to undo or fix the work at your expense.
• Create safety hazards if electrical, structural, or mechanical work is not done to code.
• Lead to insurance claim denials if unpermitted work causes damage.

If you are buying a home in Cherry Hill, your real estate agent can help you identify whether past renovations were properly permitted. Bob Millaway always advises his clients to ask about permits during the due diligence period.

Contact the Cherry Hill Construction Department

Cherry Hill Township Construction Department
820 Mercer Street, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
Phone: (856) 488-7878
Website: chnj.gov/construction

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Staff can answer questions about whether your project needs a permit and guide you through the application process.