FleetLand Use DepartmentPoliceBoard of RecreationBoard of SeniorsRegistrar, Vital StatisticsEmergency ManagementHistoric Preservation CommissionRecreationZoning DepartmentParksLand Use BoardBeautificationEnvironmental Commission
What is Land Use as it relates to Planning and Zoning?
Introduction -Vernon Township adheres to the New Jersey Municipal Land Use Laws NJSA40:55d (MLUL) which dictates the public hearing process for the Land Use Board. If you find yourself required to present your plans before the board, throughout this website you will find a basic understanding of the necessary requirements to help your application to achieve a successful outcome. Additionally, you will find a public hearing process to assist with your understanding of each step required to take throughout the process.
Planninginvolves many tools, including economic and demographic analysis, natural and cultural resource evaluation, goal-setting, and strategic planning of the municipalities current and future ecomonic development and growth. The Land Use Development Ordinance and Zoning Ordinances are used as the tools for implementation of this vision set forth in the Master Plan. Planning responsibilities within a municipality offers communities and their citizen's opportunity to achieve the vision of the future through the Master Plan.
Zoning is the legal mechanism that reserves the integrity of neighborhoods by providing for orderly growth and compatible uses of land and buildings in the area. This function is performed through enforcement of regulations called the Zoning Ordinance which determines how properties can be used, what types of buildings can be constructed, how much parking must be provided, where buildings can be constructed on the property, etc. Setback requirements have been established within each zone throughout the municipality.
Zoning Variance - occasionally, zoning requirements are altered for a specific piece of property due to special circumstances related to its location or proposed use. A variance is the procedure by which the regulations are modified for these properties. There are two basic types of variances: Use variances and Area variances. A use variance relates to the uses of land or structures. An area variance relates to yard, bulk and space requirements.
Procedural - Should you find yourself preparing an application before the Land Use Board there are a few things you could do to expedite this process. First, understanding how the Land Use Board operates. It is a quasi-judicial body of members, meaning it operates similar to, but not as strictly as a court of law. Thus, a hearing is similar to a court proceeding and follows the New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law 40-55: (NJ MLUL), the Vernon Township Master Plan and Land Use Development Ordinances. For specific and additional information or detailed guidance, the applicant will find additional documents located throughout this website.
The mission of the Vernon Township Police Department is to maintain order, preserve and protect life, peace and property of all the people who live, work and visit this community. The members of this department are held to the highest standards or performance and ethics. This department provides efficient police services in a fair and professional manner without prejudice or bias. The Vernon Police are dedicated the building and strengthening the relationships with the town's citizens and businesses in an effort to improve the quality of life.
The Board of Recreation has the powers and duties as provided by law, except it may not have the authority to purchase or acquire any property on the Township's behalf. But, it may recommend to the Council the purchase or acquisition of lands, equipment, or property. Board meets the third Wed. of the month.
Board Members -
Mary Bradley Barbara Green Adam Paladini
Don Sledgeski
Jonathan Rosenberg Joseph Gallo
Jason Rinker
Vacancy
Mary Ellen Vichiconti
Contact Details Board Contact: Pat Seger,Director of Community Affairs Location: Vernon Municipal Building Phone Number: (973) 764-4055 Ext. 2261 Fax Number: (973) 764-6727
Board Details Meeting Location: Municipal Center / Court Room
Meeting Time: The 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month.
Members Betty Glass, Chairperson
Arthur Maggio, Jo Prisco, Secretary Jackie Reich,Treasurer Marilyn Turansky Patricia Seger- Ex. Officio
Contact Details Board Contact: Pat Seger, Director of Community Affairs / Mary Kaptein Location: Senior Center, Municipal Center, Lower Level Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30am to 4:00pm Phone Number: (973) 764-4055
Board Details Meetings Dates: Second Thursday at 9:30am Meeting Location: Senior Center, Municipal Center, Lower Level
Functions & Duties The Seniors Board acts to advance the welfare of Vernon's senior citizens through social, recreation, and education programs and acts as spokesperson for Vernon's senior citizens in any issues presented to the Township. The Board also assists with the administration and operation of the Senior Center in order to obtain maximum utilization of the facilities.
Welcome to the Vernon Township Registrar's Office Web page!
The Vernon Township Registrar's Office maintains records of Births, Marriages and Deaths that have occurred in Vernon Township and issues certified copies of these vital records, upon application, as long as the record is on file on our office. Please note that New Jersey law protects and restricts the release of vital records. Birth, marraige, and death records are not public records and therefore cannot be searched online.
The Registrar's Office also processes marriage applications and issues marriage licenses.
PLEASE BE ADVISED copies of birth, marriage, and death records are kept and maintained in the municipality where the birth, marriage, or death occurred.
APPLYING FOR A MARRIAGE, REMARRIAGE, OR CIVIL UNION LICENSE
Applications are taken BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Monday - Thursday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Please call us at 973.764.4055 ext. 2234 at least 48 hours in advance to make an appointment
Application for a Marriage, Remarriage, or Civil Union License can be made in the New Jersey municipality in which either of the two applicants reside. The Marriage or Civil Union ceremony can take place anywhere within the State of New Jersey.
If neither applicant is a New Jersey resident, you should apply for your Marriage or Civil Union License in the municipality where the marriage or civil union ceremony will be performed. The Marriage or Civil Union License will only be valid in the issuing municipality.
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and must show proof of birth. (Applicants under the age of 18 may enter into a Marriage with parental consent and applicants under the age of 16 must obtain parental consent and consent approved in writing by a judge of the Superior Court, Chancery Division, Family part in the State of New Jersey.)
APPLICANTS MUST BRING IN THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS:
Original Birth Certificate is required. Birth Certificates in a foreign language must be translated into the english language and the translated document must be notarized.
Proof of identity and residency. Valid Drivers License with Photo; Passport; or, Federal or State ID are acceptable forms of proof.
The Social Security Number for a U.S. Citizen is required by law and will be kept confidential. Documentary proof must be given at the time of application.
One [1] witness must be present with you at the time of application. The witness must be 18 years of age or older, is someone who is familiar with both applicants, and readily speaks and understands the English language. (Family members often are brought in as a witness to the application process.)
If Divorced: Bring in the filed-stamped copy of the Final Divorce Decree or Final Judgement of Divorce issued by the Court showing the docket number, judge's signature, and date.
If Widowed: Bring in a certified copy of the former spouse's Death Certificate,
If applying for a Remarraige License: Bring in a certified copy of your Marraige Certificate.
There is a $28 Marriage or Civil Union Application Fee. We accept Cash or Check. Checks are made payable to "Vernon Township"
AFTER YOU HAVE APPLIED FOR YOUR MARRIAGE OR CIVIL UNION LICENSE, a 72-hour waiting period must pass before our office can issue the license. The waiting period begins at the time the application is completely filed and the $28.00 fee has been paid.
A Marriage or Civil Union application is valid for six (6) months. Once the application period expires, a new application must be completed and a $28 application fee remitted.
A Marriage or Civil Union License is valid for 30 days once it is issued. Expired licenses cannot be used and a new application must be completed and a $28 application fee remitted.
OBTAINING A CERTIFIED COPY
OF A BIRTH, MARRIAGE, OR DEATH RECORD
Certified copies are legal documents used to establish the identity of an individual. Certified records contain the raised seal of our office and are issued on the State of New Jersey safety paper. Certified documents cannot be tampered with and cannot be reproduced.
To obtain a Certified copy of a vital record you must submit:
1. A completed "Request for Vital Record" application.
2. Proof of identity. A valid Drivers License with photo is acceptable.
3. Proof of your relationship to the vital record you are requesting
The purpose of the Office of Emergency Management is to provide a comprehensive emergency system for the health, safety, and welfare of the public during an emergency situation, and to aid in the prevention of damage to, and the destruction of property during an emergency. This coordinated effort is concerned with the protection of life and property, and the minimization of suffering, loss of life, and destruction of property during periods of emergency.
Established to advise the Township Council, Planning Board,
and Zoning Board with respect to the designation of historic landmarks within the
township and the effect of development applications. Intention to foster the protection, enhancement, and perpetuation of noteworthy examples or elements of the township's
environment.
Members:
Charles Bates, Chairperson
Christopher Hanke, Vice Chair
Andrew Borsiuk
Kevin Cantaldi
Sharon Cheadle
Richard Wetzel
Cynthia Davis - Recording Secretary
Meetings Dates: Third Thursday at 7pm Meeting Location: Municipal Center Terms: Class B Members serve four years; Class C Members serve two years; Class A Members serve one year
Vernon Township Recreation Department has become an advocate for quality recreation programs and continues to be a Community resource for recreational local, non-profit organizations. This dynamic and unique role has allowed us to foster Vernon Township as a livable Community, while promoting and improving healthy lifestyle choices through access, opportunity, and affordable.
NEW
Fall Co-ed over 30 Sunday Night Soccer Pick up games-
Starts Sunday September 12, 2010 and ends on November 21, 2010.
Eleven weeks of soocer at a cost of $30.00 for residents and $36.00 for non-residents. To register click link: https://register.communitypass.net/vernon. Any questions please call Department of Community Affairs 973-764-4055 ext. 2261.
Vernon Summer Excitement: Mark Your Calendars and join the fun!!
Tuesday'sis Craft night at the new Maple Grange Community Center starting July 6, 2010.Bring out the children & their friends to join Vernon's friendly staff to create a project that is theirs to keep. Program runs 6-8 pm. No prior registration required. Rain or shine. Program runs every Tuesday night from 7/6 - 8/17/2010. Please join us at the Community Building located in Maple Grange Community Park @ 136 Maple Grange Road. Cost of craft night is $1.00/night/person.
Wednesday is family fun night on the GREAT LAWN located within Maple Grange Community Park.
Gather up the family, neighboorhood & friends to join the Vernon Township staff in pick up wiffle ball, kick ball, jump rope, frisbee, hula-hoop and more. This is going on anytime between 6-8 pm (join in anytime during this time). Starts July 7 th and continues every Wednesday night until August 18, 2010. On August 18, 2010 a Night at the Olympics will occur. Get the teams ready to compete. Everyone will be a winner - at the conclusion of the olympics there will be ice cream sundaes for all. You must pre-register for the 18th only so we can assure to have enough ice cream for all. Please sign up at any night prior to the last eveing at the Park. Cost of the Ice-cream sundae is $2.00/person.
Walk/Run/Jog/Bike - available everyday on the bike/walking path around Maple Grange Community Park.Maple Grange Community Park offers a great place for the family to stay in shape. There is something for any age at the park. Mom & Dad stroll while the little ones play in the playground, ride a bike, roller skate, run, kick a ball, fly a kite..... endless possibilites in the mist of beautiful views. Community Building bathrooms are open all day.
July is Recreation Month -- Vernon Township Recreation Committee has a great day planned on JULY 20, 2010. This is a fun night of laser tag. Verno Township is bringing in Combatt Sports to provide the entertainment for anyone over 8 years of age
to join in on the laser tag fun. A battle field will be set up on the great lawn at Maple Grange Park for all the fun to begin. All equipment will be provided by Combat Sports. For anyone under the age of 8 will will have a-bounce house available for you to enjoy. Parnets can join in the laser tag too. Click her to view Combat Sports web site:http://www.outdoorlasertag.com/. Permission slips must be filled out and signed to participate. Send an email to vernonrec@gmail.com if you will be joining us for the night of laser tag and more, please be sure to let us know how many in your party so we can plan.
Parks & Recreation
*Please be patient still under construction
Functions:
The duty of the Zoning Officer is to enforce the Land Development Ordinance and pursuant to that duty investigate any violation or alleged violation of the Land Development Ordinance coming to his/her attention, whether by complaint of third persons or from his own personal knowledge or observation.
When any building or structure is erected, constructed, altered, repaired, converted or any building, structure or land is used in violation of any provision of the Land Development Ordinance, it is the duty of the Zoning Officer to proceed with the enforcement of the ordinance and the penalties provided for in the ordinance.
When would I need to apply for a Zoning Permit?
Residential: Zoning and Building permits are required for most home improvement projects, including additions, decks, sheds, raised patios, cabanas, and swimming pools.
Commercial: Zoning permits are needed when a commercial building is being sold / leased or there is a change in occupancy. A Continued Certificate of Occupancy (CCO) is also needed. Those are obtained in the Building Department.
How do I determine what Zone I'm in?
You can find out your zone by clicking on this link for the Zoning Map or use the Zoning Map located in the Planning & Zoning department. You can also call the Zoning officer at 973.764.4055 x2248. The map is also available in the Township Clerks office. To get your block and lot number, contact the Tax Assessors office.
What is a setback line?
A setback line is a line that is the required minimum distance from any lot line and that establishes the area within which the principal structure or accessory structure may be erected or placed on a property. The Zoning Set Back Requirements and the Accessory Structure Requirements can be read online under Township Code section Chapter 330 Land Development. A listing of all Permitted, Conditional and Accessory Uses and Structures can also be found chapter 330, or you may call the office at 973-764.4055 ext. 2279 for specific questions.
How do I schedule a final Zoning inspection?
You can call 973-764-4055 ext. 2248 to speak to Craig Roland or come by in person at the Township of Vernon Zoning Department to schedule an appointment.
Coming soon rental of Maple Grange Community Building
Members of the Land Use Board:
Chairman
Martin Theobald
Vice-Chairman
Andrew Borisuk
Member
Joseph Tadrick
Member
Andrea Cocula
Member
David Gornstein
Member
Sally Rinker, Mayor
Member
Jean Murphy
Member Member
Jessie Paladini Valerie Seufert
Alt#1
Brian Lynch
Alt#2
Christopher Hack
Alt#3
Jack Smith
Alt#4
Ed Rolando
Land Use Board Professionals
Board Attorney - Michael S. Garofalo, Laddy, Clark & Ryan, LLP
Board Engineer -
Board Secretary -
Functions and Duties of the Municipal Land Use Board
The Land Use Board acts within the framework of the Municipal Land Use Law (Chapter 291, Laws of NJ 1975) and the Township's Comprehensive Land Development Subcode.
MunicipalLand Use Board reviews and decides applications of "permitted use" activities and "non permitted use" activities, which may or may not require variances. The board is not required to grant or deny any variance relief. Requests for relief are not based upon policy, but rather upon the ability of an applicant to prove their case in accordance with the MLUL. There are two type of use applications.
"Permitted" Use Applications - which includes, site plan and subdivision applications, municipal comprehensive Master Plan, conditional use Permits, related Bulk "C" and "D" variances, encroachment permits, site plan waiver requests, prepares Capital Improvement Programs as well as, Land Development & Zoning Ordinances. The Board ensures these applications are in conformance with: (a) the Township Master Plan and developmental ordinances; (b) satisfies public safety concerns; (c) meets generally accepted design standards as recommended by board professionals and city officials; and (d) requires no variances.
"Non Permitted" Use Applications - The board will hear administrative appeals and interpretations of zoning codes, maps or ordinances. Typically, the board hears requests for providing an applicant relief from zoning requirements which are non-conforming as the Land Use Development Chapter 330 of the Vernon Township Code Book depicts. Therefore, in some cases, bulk area "C" variances related to use variance or single or two-family dwellings, use "D" Variances, floor area ratio variances, building height variances over 10% of permitted height expansions will be required to obtain approvals from the board.
Mission Statement of the Beautification Committee:
Historic Preservation Commission Meeting - August 19, 2010 - Cancelled Published: Monday, August 09, 2010 TOWNSHIP OF VERNON NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF TOWNSHIP HISTORICAL PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Regular Historical Preservation Commission Meeting of the Township of Ver...
Environmental Commission Minutes 7-19-10 Published: Wednesday, August 04, 2010 VERNON TOWNSHIP ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES July 19, 2010 CALL THE MEETING TO ORDER Dennis Miranda called the meeting to order at 7:36 p.m. STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE: Pursuant to ...
Township Council Meeting Minutes 6-10-10 Published: Wednesday, July 28, 2010 Township of Vernon TOWNSHIP COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING June 10, 2010 The Regular Meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Vernon was convened at 6:12 p.m. on Thursday, June 10, 2010 in the Ve...
Township Council Meeting Minutes 6-24-10 Published: Wednesday, July 28, 2010 Township of Vernon TOWNSHIP COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING June 24, 2010 The Regular Meeting of the Township Council of the Township of Vernon was convened at 6:07 p.m. on Thursday, June 24, 2010 in the Ve...