Know Your Codes, Homeowners: Nutley Officials Issue Spring Reminder

NUTLEY, NJ — Spring fever is here in Nutley, and with the changing of the weather also comes a renewed wave of activity when it comes to construction projects, garage sales and home maintenance. And a little bit of knowledge can go a long way towards avoiding frustrations, local officials say.

Last week, Nutley Department of Revenue and Finance Commissioner Thomas Evans encouraged residents to brush up on the town codes and zoning laws if they’re embarking on home projects.

“This is an extremely busy time of year for our department,” Evans said. “The more informed our residents are, the easier it is for us to help them.”

According to Evans, one of your first stops should be the town’s code book, which is also available as a reference tool on the Nutley municipal website.

“We want to encourage residents to use this site which can be accessed any time of day or night,” Evans said. “It saves time and provides guidelines so that when they call our office, we can provide what they need.”

“We are here to serve our residents and answer any questions they may have,” Evans added. “I encourage them to contact us at 973-284-4957 and take advantage of the many services we provide.”

Here are some other things to keep in mind this spring, he says.

HOME MAINTENANCE/LAWNS

Property maintenance is an issue that comes up most often, according to David Berry of the Code Enforcement Department.

According to Nutley officials:

“All property owners are responsible for keeping their property in good order, to the extent that it does not detract from or become an eyesore within the neighborhood. Residents should be sure to cut their grass regularly and keep it free of leaves, branches, and other debris. Retaining walls, fences and sheds must be kept structurally sound and free from defects and damage. Residents are responsible for maintaining the area of grass within 10 feet of the street, in front of their property or, if it is a corner property, on the front and side of their property.”

GARAGE SALES

As garage sales become more popular in the warming weather, here are a few things to remember, officials said:

“The township ordinance allows a property owner to host one garage sale per year. Permits are $10. Posting of garage sale signs on telephone poles or trees is not allowed. Directional signs are allowed, but cannot be located in the street or on a public right-of-way. All signage must be removed by the end of the day.”

CONSTRUCTION

Evans reminded Nutley residents that most construction and exterior projects require a zoning permit and inspection. This includes fences, retaining walls, decks, patios, driveways, pools/replacement pools, sheds and the like.

It is recommended that residents contact the code enforcement department to ensure they receive correct information on permit requirements, he said.

Berry noted that Nutley has seen an increasing trend where attics, basements/cellars and garages are being converted into a prohibited living space, such as a bedroom or a dwelling unit.

“Generally, there are multiple zoning, construction code and life safety issues associated with converting these areas into a living space,” Berry said. “As such, they are generally prohibited under our code. If a resident is considering converting these areas into livable space, they should contact us before they attempt to make any alterations. Our office would be more than happy to help.”

RENTALS, AIRBNBS

According to Evans, the town has also seen more interest from residents who want to operate parts of their homes and yards or investment property as AirBnBs or temporary rentals.

These temporary rental activities are strictly prohibited under the township ordinances, Evans noted.

Send local news tips and correction requests to [email protected]. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site. Don’t forget to visit the Patch Belleville-Nutley Facebook page.