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Build Responsibly

Construction Permit Application

Permits:

Before you build on, fill, alter, or regrade your property always check with the Construction Department for a PERMIT. Any type of construction in the floodplain increases the amount of development exposed to damage and can affect flooding on neighboring properties.  A permit may be needed to ensure that the projects do not cause problems on other properties and that the construction methods are in accordance with the standards for new buildings and substantial improvements to existing buildings. By getting the proper permits before you build, you can prevent flooding and other drainage problems. Failure to follow the local building code can result in an order to stop construction, a fine, higher flood insurance rates, denial of flood insurance, or all of the above. When in doubt, call the Construction Department at (732) 475-6983.

Additional Information:
FEMA P-55, Coastal Construction Manual
https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3293

Protecting Your Home And Property From Flood Damage
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-11/fema_protect-your-home_...

Homeowner's Guide to Retrofitting
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-08/FEMA_P-312.pdf

 

Floodplain Rules:

There are special rules regarding building in the Special Flood Hazard Area. If you have to erect a building in the regulated floodplain, it must have its lowest floor and all utilities elevated to the regulatory elevation set by the Borough of Mantoloking.  Documentation of meeting this requirement is done with a FEMA Elevation Certificate. Check with Construction Department at (732) 475-6983 to determine that elevation.

If you have an existing building and want to improve, expand, or repair it, you also need to check with your local permit office. Certain codes require that all substantial improvements to a building be treated as a new building. A substantial improvement is when the value of an addition, alteration, repair, or reconstruction project equals or exceeds 50% of the value of the existing building.  Structures that are declared as substantially improved are required to become compliant with current standards.  Check with Construction Department at (732) 475-6983.

 

When selecting a contractor:

  •  Only use licensed contractors who know the rules
  •  Get your permits and inspections
  •  Ask for proof of insurance
  •  Ask for references
  •  Ask for written estimates
  •  Ask for a written contract
  •  Ask for any guarantees in writing
  •  Obtain a copy of the final signed contract
  •  Avoid cash payments
  •  Don't sign off before the job is finished
  •  Check several firms and their reputations
  •  Look out for "special deals" or contractors who want to use your home as a "model home."

 

Other Methods:

Relocate/Raise everything that could be damaged by a flood by elevating it above the design flood level.  By doing this, flood damage is reduced. Thousands of dollars in damage can be prevented by simply moving furniture and electrical appliances to a higher level. Structural components below the flood level can be replaced with materials that are not subject to water damage.  For areas below the flood level, there should be no carpeting, furniture, insulation, and other materials subject to water damage.