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1. Are there affordable quality housing options available for all ages?

Yes, please visit the New Jersey Housing Resource Center, Cooperative Housing Corp Website, and New Jersey Department of Community Affairs for more information.

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1. When do I need a permit?

Permits are required for most construction activities. All questions can be directed to the Construction Department by calling 908-753-8000, ext. 240, 241 or 242. Most tree removals also require a permit from the Zoning Department please call 908-753-8000, ext. 243 or fill out a Tree Permit Application (PDF) and drop it off at the Zoning Office.

2. Who do I make my check out to?

Please make checks payable to Warren Township.

3. How do I schedule an inspection through the Construction Code Office?

Please call the office at 908-753-8000, ext. 240, 241 or 242 to make an inspection appointment at least 24 hours prior to the day the inspection is desired. Inspection scheduling is done between 8:30 am and 4 pm.

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1. What is the soil movement process through the Engineering Department?

Warren Township has determined that the uncontrolled and unregulated disturbance, excavation, filling and removal of soil has resulted and will result in conditions detrimental to the safety, health and general welfare of the public. As such, compliance with section 15-9.2 of the Warren Township Ordinance may be required for work performed on residential properties. To determine applicability, the concerned party shall consult section 15-9.2 and direct questions to one of the employees in the Engineering Department.

Generally, a permit application (PDF) along with a plan to address section 15-9.2 shall be submitted along with the requisite fees to the Engineering Department. The application and plan will be reviewed and once approved, a letter will be written approving the application. (This approval is considered a prior approval for the Construction Department).

2. How do I request for maps or documents from the Engineering Department?

The Engineering Department does have a significant number of maps and documents available for review by the public.  Assistance in reviewing the documents can be offered to the extent of the Engineering Department’s knowledge.  If copies of the maps and documents are needed, an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request can me made through the Township Clerk’s office specifying the records requested. Requisite fees may apply for the copies.

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1. When is my company’s invoice paid?

The invoice is paid once a month after the Warren Township Committee approves the bill list.

2. How do I get my plan review escrow deposit back?

Escrow deposits are required for development projects and are applied to the various boards for approvals. These accounts are charged for the applicable professional invoices that are billed the account. The balance of the account, if any, is refunded at the conclusion of the project.

Please contact the Office of Finance to discuss any escrow deposit.

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1. How do I pay a traffic ticket online?

Please visit the New Jersey Courts website to pay your ticket.

2. What are the recycle pick-up dates?

Somerset County provides an annual schedule of drop-off dates and locations for Hazardous materials and Recycle pick-up schedule. A package containing this information is mailed to residents each year. The Department of Public Works will provide you the upcoming dates and will send you a copy of the current pickup schedule if you give them a call at 908-753-1223 or you may go to the Somerset County Recycling website.

3. How do I apply for a marriage license?

You apply for a Marriage License in the town you or your fiancé reside unless you are from out of state. In that case, you apply in the Town the marriage is to occur. Applications are by appointment only Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm. Once you apply, there is a 72-hour waiting period before the license can be issued. Once the license is issued, it is valid for 30 days.

What to Bring

To apply you need to bring the following items:

• The Officiant’s name/address and telephone number, if known
• One witness that is over 18 and speaks and understands English
• Payment of $28, exact cash or check - Credit cards are accepted with a $3 convenience charge
• A valid, government-issued photo identification
• Your parent’s names at birth (maiden name) and the place of birth for both
• Your Social Security number (you do not have to show your Social Security card)

Previous Marriages

If either party has been in a previous marriage, civil union or domestic partnership, you will need to provide the name of the former spouse, date, and location of the divorce/termination or date and location of death.

4. How do I voice a complaint?

Please submit your concern here...

5. Where can I find bid announcements?

Vendors are encouraged to view our bids on our website.

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1. What can be done about my neighbor’s pool that has stagnant water and is creating a mosquito problem?

Report it to the Health Department at 908-753-8000 ext. 239 with a specific address and location. The inspector will go out to the property to verify the complaint and take the appropriate steps to have the problem corrected.

2. How can I safely dispose of unused syringes?

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital has a Safe Syringe Program. They can be reached at 908-685-2200 for further information.

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1. Where can I get a rabies shot for my dog or cat?

The Health Department, in conjunction with the Middle-Brook Regional Health Commission, offers free rabies clinics in May, November, and December. Please contact the Health Department at 908-753-8000 ext 239 for specific dates and locations.

2. How do I license my dog or cat?

Dogs must be licensed when they are 7 months old and by January 31 of each year. Proof of current rabies vaccination must be presented to license a dog. Rabies certificates must be valid for the full licensing year. In addition, evidence of spay/neutering should be supplied, if applicable, to receive a discounted application fee.

Cats must be licensed by January 31 of each year. Proof of current rabies vaccination must be presented to license a cat. Rabies certificates must be valid for the full licensing year. In addition, evidence of spay/neutering should be supplied, if applicable, to receive a discounted application fee.

Pet Licensing Online

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1. How do I pay a traffic ticket online?

Please visit the New Jersey Courts website to pay your ticket.

2. How do I file an appeal through the Municipal Court?

A person who disagrees with the decision of a Municipal Court may appeal. That appeal must be filed within 20 calendar days of the court’s decision. Appeals from the Municipal Courts are heard at the county level in the Superior Court, Law Division. The Superior Court Judge reviews the transcript (produced from the audio recording of the trial) and any other evidence or legal papers from the trial and makes a decision regarding the case. New testimony or evidence is generally not admitted for the appeal.

Informational Packet

The Judiciary has prepared an information packet, How to Appeal a Decision of a Municipal Court (PDF), for persons wishing to appeal a Municipal Court decision.

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1. What are the recycle pick-up dates? How and where can hazardous materials be disposed of?

Somerset County provides an annual schedule of drop-off dates and locations for Hazardous materials and Recycle pick-up schedule. A package containing this information is mailed to residents each year. The Department of Public Works will provide you the upcoming dates and will send you a copy of the current pickup schedule if you give them a call at 908-753-1223 or you may go to the Somerset County Recycling website.

2. How do I report a catch basin that needs to be cleaned out?

Please file a report with the Public Works Office at 908-753-1223.

3. How can I report intersections and areas that need to be trimmed?

Please report areas that need to be trimmed to the Public Works Office at 908-753-1223.

4. How do I dispose of old furniture?

There is a mini dump at Public Works that runs from May to September of every year. Please call the Public Works Office at 908-753-1223 for further information.

5. How do I report a pothole which needs to be repaired?

Please report pothole repairs to the Public Works Office at 908-753-1223.

6. How do I receive a new recycling bin?

Recycling bins may be picked up at Public Works facility located at 1 Bardy Road from 7:30 am to 3 pm Monday through Friday.

7. How do I request to have a sign installed (speed limit, dead end, curve ahead, hidden driveway, etc)?

Please call in requests to the Public Works Office at 908-753-1223.

8. How do I request to have a tree removed within the Right-of-Way?

Please call in requests to the Public Works Office at 908-753-1223.

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1. What is a Purchase Order?

A Purchase Order is a document issued by the contracting agent authorizing a purchase transaction with a vendor to provide or perform goods or services to the contracting unit, which, when fulfilled in accordance with the terms and conditions of a request of a contracting agent and other provisions and procedures that may be established by the contracting unit, will result in payment by the contracting unit. Purchase Orders are entered into the finance system which encumbers funds against appropriate department budgets, the encumbrance process ensures budget accounts are not over expended.

2. Where can I find bid announcements?

Vendors are encouraged to view our bids on our website.

3. What is the approval process for bids?

Bids are evaluated for:

• Compliance with bid specifications
• Financial responsibility
• The lowest responsible bidder
• The reputation of the vendor
• Service availability
• Other relevant considerations

After analysis, a recommendation is submitted to the Township Committee for award. All awards or rejections normally occur within 60 days unless an extension is granted by the bidder. Notifications of award/rejection will be made in writing.

4. What procurement methods are solicited?

Request for Bids (RFB)

These are generally required for any commodity, service, or public improvement when costs exceed the statutory bid threshold ($40,000), pursuant to NJ S.A. 40A: 11-3, and must be submitted in accordance with the terms and conditions prescribed in the respective package

All Request for Bids (RFB) must be submitted on forms supplied by the Township. For packages that contain plans or detailed specifications, there may be a fee. Vendors are encouraged to view our bid postings for current RFB announcements. RFBs are publicly opened and read aloud at the date, time and location specified. Prospective bidders are invited to attend all openings. Bid submissions are available for inspection after bids have been opened.

Request For Proposal (RFP)

RFPs may be utilized for the procurement of the Township Clerks Office.

Request for Quotation (RFQ)

Purchases between $2,500 and the statutory bid threshold of $40,000 will generally require an RFQ.

5. What is a Business Registration Certificate (BRC)?

A Business Registration Certificate is required from all vendors who receive any payment above $6,000 annually from Warren Township. The Business Registration Certificate law covers all contracts awarded by a contracting agency. This includes contracts that are awarded by:

• Competitive contracting
• Concession
• Emergency contracts
• Professional service
• Public bid
• Purchase order
• Request for proposals
• Resolution for items exempt from receipt of bids
• Other mechanisms

When the value of the individual contract or annual aggregate value with the vendor exceeds 15% of the contracting agency’s bid threshold.

6. How can I make an appointment with the Purchasing Department?

Vendors are encouraged to make an appointment before arriving to assure the availability of Purchasing personnel by calling 908-753-8000, ext. 233.

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1. How do I find out about discounted park tickets for summer and winter?

You can receive discount tickets from the following places:

• Long Hill Township Parks and Recreation Department
• Middlesex Recreation
  Phone: 732-356-7400, ext. 277
• Somerset County Parks Commission

2. How do I become a volunteer for the Recreation Department?

Print the Volunteer Application (PDF) then email, fax, or mail to the Recreation Office. Check out the opportunities listed and register to help at an event on the Volunteer page.

3. How do I find a Senior Club in Warren Township?

If you are a Warren resident, please look at our Civic Service Organizations Directory for more information. They meet the first Wednesday of each month at Our Lady of the Mount Church at 10 am. If you are a Somerset County resident, visit the Office on Aging and Disability Services or call 908-753-9440 for the County Warrenbrook Senior Center located in Warren.

4. How do I find out about Warren Township trails?

Take a look at our trails. This allows you to view descriptions and locations of the 7 Warren trails. You are also able to print the Trails Pamphlet.

5. Do I have to sign up for basketball court usage?

Warren Township does not require a basketball sign-up sheet. We use first-come-first serve.

6. Do I have to sign up for tennis court usage?

Warren Township does not require a tennis sign-up sheet. We use first-come-first-serve. There are rules posted on board before entering the courts.

7. How do I find out about coaching requirements?

Please visit the For Coaches page for more information.

8. How do I rent a ball field?

Complete the Facility Use Application (PDF) then drop off, email, fax or mail in to:
Warren Township Recreation Office
46 Mountain Boulevard
Warren, NJ 07059

Please review the facility use regulations, lease agreement and fees that are listed on the application.

9. How do I rent the pavilion?

Complete the Facility Use Application (PDF) then drop off, email, fax or mail to the:
Recreation Office at Warren Township
46 Mountain Boulevard
Warren, NJ 07059

Please review the pavilion rules and fees. You must have homeowners, renters or business insurance in order to rent the pavilion.

10. How do I sign up for youth sports?

Please visit the Sports Group page for more information. Please note Warren Township Recreation does not run youth sports except for tennis lessons and High School Intramural Basketball. You may learn more about these programs by visiting the Youth Programs page.

11. How can I advertise my upcoming Warren Township event?

If your company is located in town and it’s a free event or you are a local non-profit organization, the Recreation Office would be happy to advertise for you. We email a weekly newsletter to residents every Friday. The information must be in no later than Thursday at 3 pm. You can also contact the Warren Cable Channel.

12. How do I find information about summer camps and events?

Receive update recreation news as it comes out by signing up for the Recreation Newsletter, visiting the Recreation page regularly, reviewing Patch or the Echo-Sentinel. Registrations begins mid-April. See the Warren Township Recreation Calendar to find upcoming events.

13. How do I become a sponsor through the Recreation Department?

Visit our Donation/Sponsorship page for more information and view the Sponsor Form (PDF). Print out the sponsor form and email, fax or mail it to the Recreation Office. It will be reviewed by the Township Administrator, approved then the office will contact you for more information and instructions on sending the donation or sponsorship check.

14. How do I sign up for the Recreation Weekly Newsletter?

To receive township announcements, sign up for our Recreation Weekly Newsletter. This will ensure you will receive the newest updates of Recreation news and other local township events.

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1. How and where can I have my well tested?

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection requires well testing upon transferring a property. Information on the requirements may be found on the State of New Jersey Division of Environmental Protection Website. This site also provides valuable information for those wanting to test their well for their general knowledge. The Health Department encourages all property owners with wells to test it frequently to be sure of a safe and drinkable water supply.

2. How do I know if a property has a septic or well?

If you provide the address and the block and lot for a site we can provide the file for review if one exists. Often, but not always, this information will be available in the property file.

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1. When determining my value, are you comparing my home to the sales of homes in my area or across town?

We strive to use sales in your area; our objective is to compare homes based on location, style, age, and square footage.

2. Are the assessment value changes made on only the inspected 25% of properties?

No. We will inspect 25% of the properties each year, but all of the assessment values for the entire township are changed each year.

3. What if I’m not home when the inspector visits can I make an appointment?

The first time an inspector visits a property, all exterior structures will be measured. A notice will be left indicating when a second inspection will be attempted. Contact the appropriate individual from the Construction Code Office to schedule an appointment if necessary. A maximum of three attempts will be made to inspect a property.

4. When will my property be inspected?

Property owners will be notified by letter when the inspector will begin work in their neighborhood. The letter will indicate the time frame of inspections in the neighborhood. The inspector will carry identification; The state requires we complete a full inspection every four years (25% per year).

5. Can I discuss the value of my property with the Inspectors?

The field inspectors are only responsible for performing inspections and gathering information and cannot answer questions regarding the value of your property. Only a Certified Tax Assessor can set the value on your home.

6. Can I discuss the new assessment with the Assessor if I disagree or have questions?

Yes, the Tax Assessor will hold informal meeting to meet with residents who have questions. If after this meeting, you still disagree, you may file a formal appeal with the Somerset County Tax Board by May 1st of the tax year. To contact the Assessor’s office call 908-753-8000, ext. 235.

7. When will taxpayers be informed of their new assessment?

All property owners will receive a written notice of their new assessments on or about the beginning of each February.

8. How will a reassessment affect taxes?

The Assessor’s Office has no control over budgets; its only function is to reestablish the municipal overall assessment value. The budgetary levy is then divided by the overall rate-able assessment value to determine the tax rate. The budgetary levy accounts for:

• County Budget
• Fire District Budget
• Library Budget
• Municipal Budget
• Open Space
• School Budget

9. What is done during a reassessment?

A subcontracted inspector performs a physical inspection of property. The purpose of this inspection is to maintain our database, which is vital to maintain equity and uniformity. Measuring all exterior structures, and inspection of the interior to determine what amenities exist (the homeowner can deny the inspector access to the interior but then the inspector will be forced to estimate the inside amenities of your property). A Certified Tax Assessor then performs an analytical study of market data (e.g. sales, rental rates, capitalization rate, etc.), to set the assessments at full and fair value.

10. What causes inequitable assessments?

The following may cause inequitable assessments:

• Changes in characteristics of the parcel or neighborhood
• Changes in style
• Fluctuations in the economy
• Improvements completed without permits
• Market pressure (supply and demand)

11. Why is there a need for a reassessment?

To spread the tax burden equitably within the municipality, to assess property at the same standard of value and to ensure that every property owner is paying his/her fair share.

12. What is a full and fair value?

Full and fair value is the value (price) at which a property would theoretically sell for in a fair and bona fide sale, on October 1st of the previous year.

As an example, assessments for the 2014 tax year would be based upon the assessor’s opinion of value on October 1st, 2013. 

13. What is a reassessment?

It is an annual process of maintaining all assessment values at 100% of full market value.

14. How do I file a tax appeal?

Somerset County Board of Taxation

If you wish to file a tax appeal, visit the Somerset County Board of Taxation. There, forms, instructions and “A Guide to Tax Appeal Hearings” may be obtained.

You may also contact the Somerset County Board of Taxation:
P.O. Box 3000
Somerville, NJ 08876

Values Exceeding $1,000,000

If the assessed value exceeds $1,000,000 you have the option of filing your appeal directly with the New Jersey Tax Court at:
P.O. Box 972
Hughes Justice Complex
Trenton, NJ 08625

For more information visit NJ Courts Online.

Revalued / Non-revalued Districts

• In a non-revalued/ non-reassessed district: Assessment appeals must be filed on or before April 1 of the current tax year, or 45 days from the date mailed, as it appears on the front of this notice, whichever date is later
• In a revalued/reassessed district: Assessment appeals must be filed on or before May 1 of the current tax year.

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1. How do I voice a complaint?

Please email all concerns and complaints to the Township Administrator.

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1. What are the utility companies in Warren Township?

Utility providers in Warren Township include:

• Cable/Phone - Optimum or Verizon Fios
• Electric - JCP&L or PSE&G
• Gas - PSE&G
• Water - New Jersey American Water Company

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1. How do I get a certified copy of a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or death certificate?

Copies are kept in the town that the event took place. You need to fill out the application, present your photo identification and a check for $10 per copy.

2. How do I apply for a marriage license?

You apply for a Marriage License in the town you or your fiancé reside unless you are from out of state. In that case, you apply in the Town the marriage is to occur. Applications are by appointment only Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm. Once you apply, there is a 72-hour waiting period before the license can be issued. Once the license is issued, it is valid for 30 days.

What to Bring

To apply you need to bring the following items:

• The Officiant’s name/address and telephone number, if known
• One witness that is over 18 and speaks and understands English
• Payment of $28, exact cash or check - Credit cards are accepted with a $3 convenience charge
• A valid, government-issued photo identification
• Your parent’s names at birth (maiden name) and the place of birth for both
• Your Social Security number (you do not have to show your Social Security card)

Previous Marriages

If either party has been in a previous marriage, civil union or domestic partnership, you will need to provide the name of the former spouse, date, and location of the divorce/termination or date and location of death.

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1. How do I prepare an appeal to the Warren Township Zoning Board of Adjustment?

Appeal Process

1. Obtain packet containing Variance Application and Checklist from Clerk to the Board of Adjustment. (Phone: 908-753-8000, ext. 260)
2. Obtain Certified Property list from Planning/Zoning office - $10
3. Submit the following to the Clerk of the Board of Adjustment:
   • 14 copies for Site Plan Approval of an accurately drawn site plan and pertinent documents in accordance with the checklist requirements for submission to the T.C.C.
   • 14 copies of an accurately drawn plot plan in accordance with the Checklist requirements. If applicable, provide the required number of any other documents accompanying the application
   • Check made payable to Warren Township for required application fee indicated in the checklist
   • Completed application with checklist noting submitted documents and material, in triplicate
   • Completed certifications from the Tax Collector and Engineering Departments
   • Submit a separate check for required escrow deposit made payable to Warren Township for the amount indicated in checklist
4. Before serving any notices, obtain date of public hearing from the clerk, who will review your application for completeness. The board attorney will review your sample notices prior to publication and service
5. At least 10 days prior to the date of public hearing, you will be required to place a notice of public hearing of your case in the Courier News, the official newspaper of the municipality
6. At least 10 days prior to the date of public hearing, you will be required to notice the property owners on the certified list you obtained from engineering via certified mail or personal service
7. At least 5 days prior to the date of Public Hearing, submit the following to the Clerk:
   • Notarized Affidavit of Service of Notice
   • Proof of publication of Notice of Public Hearing as published in the Courier News
   • Property Owners list completed as to date and manner of service
   • Sample copy of Notice of Public Hearing as served on the Property owners
8. At the time of the hearing, applicant must appear in person or be represented by an attorney - corporations and partnerships must be represented by an Attorney

Meeting Schedules

The Zoning Board of Adjustment meets on either the first or Third Monday of each month at 7 pm, unless otherwise indicated. The Schedule of Public Meeting Dates is posted on the Municipal Bulletin Board.

2. Do I need a permit to put a shed on my property?

Yes, a Shed Permit (PDF) is needed for a shed that is under 200 square feet. The shed is to be within the setbacks for the zone your property is located within. If the shed is over 200 square feet, fill out a Shed Permit (PDF) along with a Zoning Form (PDF) through the Construction Office to ensure zoning compliance. There is a $25 fee for each permit/form.

3. Do I need a permit to remove trees?

Yes a Tree Permit (PDF) is required to remove trees. This permit allows you to take down 1 tree per quarter acre a year; up to 4 trees per acre a year.  There is a $25 permit fee.

4. Do I need a sign permit to put up a new sign or a temporary sign?

A Sign Permit (PDF) is required for all signs permanent and temporary.  There is a $25 fee for the permit.

5. When do I need a fence permit?

A Fence Permit (PDF) is required anytime a fence is being constructed or replaced. There is a $25 fee for this permit.