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Alarm Systems

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1. What is a false alarm?

A false alarm occurs when an alarm is reported, and police or fire agencies respond and find no evidence of criminal activity or fire.

2. What is a backup battery?

Almost all security systems have a rechargeable battery that powers the system for a minimum of four hours in the vent of a power outage. If you have a wireless system, you may have several batteries in the sensors, as well as a backup battery.

3. How can backup batteries cause false alarms?

If you have false alarms after a storm, it may not be the storm that caused the alarm. If your batteries are not up to the job, a false alarm may be generated when your alarm system powers up after a power failure caused by a storm. Even a short power failure of a second or less may be long enough to cause a false alarm.

4. How can I reduce the chance that my battery will cause a false alarm?

Like all batteries, your backup has a useful life of about 3 to 5 years, but that life may be shortened if you have had several power outages. Your battery backup should be checked annually, or after any storm related false alarm, by an alarm technician, and replaced when needed.

5. What other steps can I take to prevent a false alarm?

Here are some ways to prevent false alarms:

• Make sure that your doors and windows are all locked before arming the system.
• Move your pets into an area that does not have a motion sensor.
• Be sure that window dressings and plants are not affected by drafts from fans for air conditioning.
• Their movement may cause a motion sensor to activate.
• Test your system monthly. Always contact your alarm company before you test the system.
• Have your system tested by a technician annually or anytime you have an unexplained false activation.
• Educate everyone who lives or works at the alarm site on the proper operation of the system.
• Never give a key to someone who is not familiar with the alarm system.

6. How many warnings can I receive before a summons is issued?

For the first and second false alarm in any 12 month period, a warning will be issued. For the third false alarm in any 12 month period, a fine of $150 shall be paid to the township. For the fourth or any subsequent false alarm, a fine of $300 shall be paid to the township.

7. What is the fee for an alarm permit?

Local alarms shall be registered, but no fee is charged.

8. How long can my outdoor audible alarm sound?

All audible signaling device shall be equipped with a timing device to limit the sounding of the signaling device to 15 minutes or less.

9. What is a central station response code?

This is question nine on the application form. This is a code that is given to your alarm company or monitoring station when your alarm sounds. We do not want the code number that operates your alarm system.

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Building Department

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1. Can I submit a construction permit online?

Yes. Holmdel’s ONLINE Portal allows you to submit a Construction Permit Application online. Simply Click here to create your free account, where you can submit and manage all your online requests. Instructions to create an online account. Click here if you already have an account.

2. Homeowner or Contractor...who should actually submit the construction permit application?

The individual doing the work should be the person completing and submitting the Construction Permit Application. REGARDLESS OF WHICH SCENARIO BELOW APPLIES, THE HOMEOWNER SHOULD NEVER REPRESENT THEY ARE DOING WORK THAT A CONTRACTOR IS DOING. See IMPORTANT NOTICE ON HOMEOWNERS COMPLETING THEIR OWN PERMITS. There are generally three scenarios:

• Scenario 1: Homeowner hires a contractor to do the work. In this case, the Contractor is responsible to complete, sign, and submit the Construction Permit Application Jacket and all the all the Subcode Technical Sections.
• Scenario 2: Homeowner is doing all the work: In this case, the Homeowner should complete, sign, and submit the Construction Permit Application Jacket and all the all the Subcode Technical Sections.
• Scenario 3: Homeowner is acting as a "General Contractor" and is hiring "Sub Contractors" (electrician, plumber, carpenter, etc) to do the work. In this case the Homeowner should complete and sign the Construction Permit Application Jacket in the top section of the form while each Sub Contractor complete and sign their respective Subcode Technical Section. Once complete, either party could deliver the Application in one package, along with any plans, if required. NOTE: See Instructions for completing Permit Folder Jacket (F-100)

3. Can I request a construction inspection online?

Yes. Holmdel’s ONLINE Portal allows you to request inspections by choosing 3 days that are convenient for you. Simply click here to create your free account, where you can submit and manage all your online requests. Instructions to create an online account. Click here if you already have an account.

4. What construction permits do I need to submit?

There are 5 different Subcode Technical Sections (commonly called "permits"), that may need to be completed. They include Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Protection, and Mechanical. Additionally, a Construction Permit Application Jacket also needs to be completed (F-100). Which forms are required depend on the type of work you’re doing. Click here to review our handout to help determine which permits need to be completed.

5. What is the difference between a mechanical permit and a plumbing permit?

A Mechanical permit must be used in certain types of construction for certain work.  See our helpful Mechanical vs Plumbing Permit Handout to help determine which Subcode Technical Section needs to be completed.

6. Do I need to submit construction plans with my permits?

Typically, most small residential projects do not require construction plans. However, on larger or more complex projects, or on commercial, institutional, educational, or industrial projects, plans and detailed specifications will be required. Anytime a design professional (Architect or Engineer) is involved in the project, plans will be required. Below are some common projects:

PROJECT	PLANS REQUIRED
Minor Work	NO
Repairs	NO
Renovation	NO
New Addition	YES
Alteration	YES
Reconstruction	YES
Finished Basement	YES
Deck	YES
In-ground Pool	YES

7. Is an Architect required to draft construction plans and specifications?

Given the complexity of codes in New Jersey, it is highly recommended that a design professional (Architect or Engineer) be consulted for more complex projects that may require plans and specifications. The application for a Construction Permit shall be accompanied by two (2) copies of specifications and of plans drawn to scale, with sufficient clarity and detail dimensions to show the nature and character of the work to be performed and must demonstrate compliance with the requirements of the code and these regulations or to facilitate inspections for code conformity. Any plans prepared by a design professional must include a raised seal and signature on each page.

8. Can I draft my own plans as a Homeowner?

Yes. The construction official shall waive the requirement for sealed plans in the case of a single family Homeowner who had prepared his or her own plans for the construction, addition, reconstruction, alteration, renovation, or repair of a detached structure used or intended to be used exclusively as his or her private residence providing that the owner shall submit an affidavit attesting to the fact that he or she has personally prepared the plans and provided further that said plans are in the opinion of the construction official, and appropriate subcode official, legible and complete for purposes of ensuring compliance with the regulations.

9. Can my contractor draft their own plans?

Only Licensed Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Contractors are permitted to draft construction plans for their specific discipline, providing the work is for a Class 3 Building, which includes 1 & 2  Family Homes. Home Improvement Contractors are NOT permitted to draft plans for homeowners.

10. What is required to be included in construction plans for a Single Family home?

Any application for a construction permit for a single family residence shall be accompanied by at least two copies of plans drawn to scale, with sufficient clarity and detailed dimensions to show the nature and character of the work to be performed. Plans submitted shall not be required to show more detail or include more information than is reasonably necessary to assure compliance with the requirements of the Uniform Construction Code and rules in this chapter.

In order to meet minimum requirements, the plans must include the following details:

1. Site diagram consisting of a site plan showing size and location of all new and existing construction on the site with distances from lot lines and indicating new building services, location and size.
2. Construction plans consisting of a scale drawing showing foundation, floor plans, and elevations, including structural framing notes for all floors, ceilings and roofs. Only girders and columns need be identified and located on the plan. Included on the drawings shall be a loading schedule indicating the live loads for which the structure is designed.
3. The following details and submissions shall be required:
   1. A cross section through one typical wall showing construction details from footing to and including roof framing. This section shall indicate all construction materials used including roofing, vapor barriers, sheathing type and thickness, insulation type and thickness, windows, glazing type if other than standard window glazing is used, interior finish material, floor type and thickness, structure, foundation and footings. Decorative material shall not be required to be shown unless it contributes to the structural integrity of the section.
   2. When roof or other truss systems are used, the details required by N.J.A.C. 5:23-2.15(f)1ii(1)(A) shall be shown. 
   3. Electrical details indicating lighting; receptacles; motors and equipment; smoke detectors; service entrance locations; size and type (overhead or underground); panel size, location; number of proposed circuits. A symbol legend shall be included.
   4. Plumbing details indicating the locations of fixtures and a notice or table listing water and drainage pipe sizes. A note stating if sewage disposal is to public sewer or individual septic system shall be included.
   5. Mechanical details indicating the type of heating system; location, size and type of heating unit, noting the distribution method and indicating design rates, location of fire dampers and safeguards; and location, type and size of flue.
   6. Energy subcode compliance, applicable to new residences and additions to existing residences, shall be demonstrated with either detailed calculations, the submission of NJ Clean Energy Program for Residential New Construction compliance documentation or other "above code" program documentation, the submission of printouts from software recognized by the Department, such as REScheck, or conforming with the prescriptive packages described in the current energy subcode compliance bulletin. REScheck software is available from the U.S. Department of Energy at www.energycodes.gov.

NOTE: To document compliance using REScheck, users shall meet or exceed the applicable requirements of the Energy Subcode. Please see the current energy subcode compliance bulletin for further guidance.

11. How can I access New Jersey‘s construction codes?

Construction codes adopted by the State of New Jersey can be accessed free of charge by clicking here.

12. Can I do my own work if I own the home?

Yes. However, Electrical work may only be performed by Homeowners in homes they own, reside in, and are detached from other structures. Townhouses, and condominiums and not considered detached.

13. How do I request an inspection?

All inspections must be requested through Holmdel’s ONLINE Portal, where up to 3 inspection days convenient to the Applicant may be requested. A technical assistant will respond with the day scheduled. Every effort is made to schedule inspections convenient for the Applicant.

14. When do I need a construction permit?

There is certain construction work that does not require the filing of a construction permit. Construction that meets the definition of Ordinary Maintenance does not require the filing of a Construction Permit Application nor does it not require any inspections. However, such construction is required to comply with the Uniform Construction Code. All other construction requires a construction permit.

15. Do I need to wait to have a permit issued to start emergency work?

Emergency work, such as water heater or furnace replacement, can be performed without first obtaining a Construction Permit. However, you must contact the Building Department by emailing Technical Assistant Dawn Horniacek or calling 732-946-2820 extension 1304 to leave a message. Please provide your name, address, and a contact number. A Construction Permit Application must be submitted within 72 hours. However, all other work under the jurisdiction of the Building Department requires a construction permit and all appropriate prior approvals before any work may start. PERFORMING CONSTRUCTION, OTHER THAN EMERGENCY WORK, MINOR WORK, OR ORDINARY MAINTENANCE, WITHOUT PERMITS, WILL SUBJECT THE OWNER AND THE CONTRACTOR TO SIGNIFICANT PENALTIES . MINOR WORK requires notice to the Building Department and the filing of a Construction Permit within five (5) business day of the notice.

16. How long does it take to obtain a construction permit?

It is important that a Construction Permit Application be completed accurately and fully. Most applications that are denied are due to insufficient or incorrect information. Most permits that are deemed complete upon acceptance are usually issued within 2 weeks. If your project requires a zoning permit or other prior approval, receiving a building permit could extend the time a permit is issued. Please note that all prior approvals must be received by the building department prior to the issuance of a Construction Permit. Completing applications online will speed the approval process. 

17. Is there any guidance on documents that may be needed in order to obtain a Construction Permit or final Certificates?

Yes. we have several checklists available that may help in highlighting what documents may be required. Also, Holmdel Township has on staff three full-time Technical Assistants that are available to assist you. Please contact our office at 732-946-2820, extension 1304, 1306, or 1307 to reach a Technical Assistant.

• Certificate of Occupancy Checklist
• House Demolition Checklist
• New Construction & Additions Checklist
• Construction Permit Application Checklist for Rehabilitation Projects

18. What construction inspections are required?

For a list of required inspections please see our Required Inspections Handout. Our Technical Assistants are available to help if you are unsure of what inspection to request. See out list of contacts for the Holmdel Department of Community Development.

19. Can a pool barrier fence be shared with my neighbor?

A common swimming pool “barrier” (fence complying with the International Swimming Pool & Spa Code) is permitted to serve as a common barrier for a pool between neighbors. A request may be made by the owner of the pool to the Building Department by completing and signing Holmdel’s Common Pool Barrier Certification, completing an Application for Variation (UCC Form F160) and pay the appropriate fee (120.00 for Class II and III structures). Note: a single family home is a Class III structure. The Certification must be signed by both the neighbor and the Homeowner owning the pool making the request.

20. How do I save money when filing for construction permits?

There is actually a way you can save money when filing for a Construction Permit. Following the suggestions below will keep your permit fees to a minimum.

1. First and foremost, make sure the work you are doing actually requires a permit. By understanding precisely what Ordinary Maintenance is, you can avoid permit fees that should not be charged. Since certain work does not require permits, do not include that work on the Construction Permit Application. It is often very difficult during the plan review process for plan review officials to determine if certain work is actually Ordinary Maintenance, since often the work is written in a manner that doesn’t clearly delineate it as such.
2. Be accurate when completing a Construction Permit Application. Whether it’s the contractor or the Homeowner, include only the work that actually requires permits. Also, accurately state the work being performed. Overstating the work will lead to fees for work that’s not being done.
3. Since the permit fees for the Building Subcode portion of the work are based primarily on the cost of construction, and is often a significant portion of the total fee, be accurate with the cost of doing the building subcode portion of the work and only state the costs for work that requires permits. Although you must include the market rate of what the building subcode portion of the construction would cost (even if the homeowner is doing the work), pay special attention that you do not overvalue the work, which would lead to higher fees. Building department officials will not question higher than normal costs of construction because they are unaware of your actual costs for the work.
4. Apply for Construction Permits when they are required. DO NOT risk doing work without permits. It is not worth it. Penalties for performing work without permits and/orapprovals start as high as $2,000.00 per violation, and are recurring for each violation by the week or day. Homeowners and Contractors are often caught doing work without first obtaining Construction Permits, and often they are permits costing less than several hundred dollars.

21. Who can I contact if I have questions concerning my construction permit?

See our complete list of contacts here: Contacts for the Holmdel Department of Community Development.

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Housing

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1. Does Holmdel require a Certificate of Continued Occupancy inspection on resale or rental of a home?

Yes. A Certificate of Continued Occupancy is required on the resale or rental of a home, apartment, mobile home, townhouse, or condominium unit.

2. What is a Certificate of Continued Occupancy inspection?

It is an inspection that is visual in nature and primarily focuses on safety hazards, unsanitary conditions, Code Violations, habitability, and welfare of the occupants of that dwelling.

3. When is a Certificate of Continued Occupancy required?

They are required for rentals before the occupancy of a new tenant; for sales prior to the new owners taking possession of the property; and for any change of occupant / owner.

4. When will the Certificate of Continued Occupancy be issued?

When all conditions have been met and in some cases at the end of the inspection if there are no outstanding issues.

5. How long is the Certificate of Continued Occupancy good for?

Sixty days from the date of issuance. Once the occupant occupies the dwelling or when new owner takes possession the certificate is good until the next change of occupant or next change of owner.

6. Can I have an inspection for a Certificate of Continued Occupancy before I have a buyer or tenant?

Yes but keep in mind that if the owner or occupant does not occupy or take ownership within 60 days then the dwelling will need to be reinspected.

7. I’m selling my house, the buyer’s inspector said some items are not “up to code”, do I have to bring it up to current code?

No. There is no requirement that existing dwellings conform to new codes unless work is being done. This is a contractual negotiation between you and the buyer.

8. My hardwired fire alarm system does not work, can I install battery operated detectors in place of the hardwired ones?

No. You must maintain the system that was installed when your home was built and if the system cannot be maintained then the system or its components must be upgraded.

9. What type of fire extinguisher do I need in the area of the kitchen?

Minimum fire extinguisher is classified as a 1-A;10-B:C but the recommended is classified as a 2-A;10-B:C.

10. What is the requirement for carbon monoxide alarms?

Carbon monoxide alarms shall be UL listed and shall be installed in all areas where bedrooms are located.

11. What are the Housing Department’s hours?

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

12. When are inspections performed?

Housing inspections are performed Tuesday and Thursday between 10 a.m. and noon and Monday through Thursday 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

13. Can I request a specific time for inspections?

No. Unfortunately due to the ever changing volume of inspections the office cannot guarantee a specific time other than the two hour time window provided.

14. Can you fax or email me the forms?

Yes. Send us an email with fax number or an email address you want it sent to and we will send it to you.

15. I am a landlord, do I need to register every year?

Yes the state requires that all landlords register with the municipality in which their rented properties are located.

16. Why do I have to register as a landlord?

N.J.S.A. 46:8-28.2 requires that “Every landlord shall, within 30 days following the effective date of this act, or at the time of the creation of the first tenancy in any newly constructed or reconstructed building, file with the clerk of the municipality, or with such other municipal official as is designated by the clerk, in which the residential property is situated…”

17. How do I apply for a Certificate of Continued Occupancy?

Stop by the office and fill out the form or fill out an online version (PDF) then bring it with payment.

18. How do I register as a landlord?

Please visit the office or download the form (PDF) and stop by the office or by mail to submit the paperwork and fee.

19. How do I contact the Housing Office?

Call the main number 732-946-2820 and dial extension 1301 or send an email.

20. How do I obtain a list of requirements for a Certificate of Continued Occupancy Inspection?

Please visit the Office, download the form (PDF), or send an email and we will send you the information.

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Municipal Court

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1. Do you take credit cards for payment?

Yes, we accept Mastecard or Visa in person or you can online.

You will need the Holmdel Court code: 1318

2. When do I have to pay my ticket by?

Your date to pay your ticket is the court date on the front of your ticket unless you are pleading not guilty or you have a mandatory ticket that requires a court appearance.

3. Will I get points?

The court does not assess points. That is done by the Motor Vehicle Commission.

4. Will I have a chance to speak to the prosecutor if I don’t have an attorney?

Yes; you will be able to speak to the prosecutor on your court date. If you have an attorney he or she will speak to the prosecutor for you.

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Police

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1. What should I do if I have an accident in Holmdel Township?

1. If you’re injured, call 911 immediately.
2. If you’re not injured and your vehicle is able to drive, move your vehicle to the side of the road.
3. If your vehicle is unable to drive, carefully check for oncoming vehicles, exit the vehicle, and get off the road to a position of safety.
4. Call 911 or the Holmdel Township Police at 732-946-4400 to report your accident. Be sure to give your exact location.

2. How can I obtain a copy of a traffic report?

If you have been involved in an incident/accident, and need a copy of a police report, please allow a minimum of five business days from the date it occurred. First, call the Records Bureau to be sure that the report is complete and available.

Records Bureau Information:

The normal operating hours of the Police Records Bureau is 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
Phone: 732-946-9690 (press option 5)
Website: www.holmdelpolice.org
E-mail: Records@holmdelpolice.org

To obtain reports in person: You can visit the Holmdel Police Records Bureau during normal operating hours. It is located in Holmdel Town Hall at 4 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel, NJ 07733.

To have a report mailed or faxed to you: Send a check or money order in the amount of $5 payable to Township of Holmdel. You will need to include your name and address, and your case number if you have been given one.
Mail request to: Holmdel Police Department, 4 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel, NJ 07733.

3. What do I need to do if my vehicle is impounded?

If your vehicle has been impounded by the Holmdel Township Police Department you must first respond to Holmdel Police Headquarters at 4 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel, NJ, to obtain a release form in order to take possession of your vehicle.
No vehicle will be released unless a valid driver’s license, registration, and insurance card are presented at Police Headquarters.

FEES:Any passenger car, SUV, motorcycle, station wagon, minivan, pickup, or any vehicle with a gross weight of less than ten thousand (10,000) pounds will be charged the following:

• TOW RATE: Eighty dollars ($80.00) + $10 Administration fee for vehicles towed to Holmdel Township Police Department.
• STORAGE FEE: Thirty dollars ($30.00) per day.

There are additional towing and storage costs for vehicles requiring more than basic towing services, and for vehicles over the ten thousand (10,000) pound weight limit. Storage fees commence after the first twelve (12) hours and continue for each day thereafter. All towing and storage fees must be paid in full before any vehicle will be released.

4. How do I Obtain a Handicapped Parking Placard?

Holmdel Township, as a service to NJ Motor Vehicle Services, can issue Temporary Handicapped Parking Placards to its residents. Motor Vehicle Law 39:4-204 through 207 states: The Chief of Police of each municipality in this State shall issue to any person who has temporarily lost the use of one or more limbs or is temporarily disabled as to be unable to ambulate without the aid of an assisting device or whose mobility is otherwise temporarily limited as certified by a physician or podiatrist….a temporary placard of not more than 6 months duration. The placard may, however, be renewed one time, at the discretion of the issuing authority, for an additional six months. The placard shall be displayed on the motor vehicle used by the temporarily handicapped person. A vehicle which has displayed a placard is allowed to park overtime or in a designated handicapped parking place.

Q. Where can I get the application for a Temporary Handicapped Placard?
A. The application form can be picked up at Holmdel Police Headquarters during normal business hours.

Q. How long is the placard good for?
A. The initial placard is good for a period of six months from the date of issue. The person with the disability may be re-certified by their qualified practitioner for an additional six month period (limited to one time).

Q. What is the charge for the handicapped parking placard?
A. The fee for the windshield placard is $4.00. This $4.00 fee must be in the form of a check or money order made payable to NJ Motor Vehicle Commission. We cannot accept cash because the form, along with the fee, must be sent to Motor Vehicle Services.

Q. Does the disabled person have to have a driver’s license?
A. No. Motor Vehicle Services will assign a number.

Q. How long do I have to wait to get the placard?
A. Under most circumstances the Temporary Handicapped Placard can be issued the same day or the following business day between business hours, if the Chief is available to sign the application. The following criteria must be met before the placard can be issued:

• The resident has filled out and signed his/her section of the form correctly.
• The doctor has filled out and signed his/her section of the form correctly.
• A check or money order in amount of $4.00 payable to NJ Division of Motor Vehicles is received.
• e most common reasons for not being able to issue a placard the same day:
• Person has not brought a check or money order in amount of $4.00 payable to NJ Division of Motor Vehicles, along with the application.
• Person wants to pay by cash which we cannot accept.
• The doctor has not filled out the three-part form which is necessary. A note from the doctor is not acceptable.
• The Chief is not available to sign and approve the placard.

Q. Is this the placard that hangs from the vehicle’s mirror?
A. Yes, the old type was placed on the dashboard.

PERMANENT PLACARDS AND WHEELCHAIR SYMBOL PLATES
These applications can be obtained at any Motor Vehicle Office or on their website at www.njmvc.com found under “forms.”

5. What do I need to know about alarm systems?

Q. What is a false alarm?
A. A false alarm occurs when an alarm is reported, and police or fire agencies response and find no evidence of criminal activity or fire.

Q. What is a backup battery?
A. Almost all security systems have a rechargeable battery that powers the system for a minimum of four hours in the event of a power outage. If you have a wireless system, you may have several batteries in the sensors, as well as a backup battery.

Q. How can backup batteries cause false alarms?
A. If you have false alarms after a storm, it may not be the storm that caused the alarm. If your batteries are not up to the job, a false alarm may be generated when your alarm system powers up after a power failure caused by a storm. Even a short power failure of a second or less may be long enough to cause a false alarm.

Q. How can I reduce the chance that my battery will cause a false alarm?
A. Like all batteries, your backup has a useful life of about 3 to 5 years, but that life may be shortened if you have had several power outages. Your battery backup should be checked annually, or after any storm related false alarm, by an alarm technician, and replaced when needed.

Q. What other steps can I take to prevent a false alarm?

• Make sure that your doors and windows are all locked before arming the system. Move your pets into an area that does not have a motion sensor.
• Be sure that window dressings and plants are not affected by drafts from fans for air conditioning. Their movement may cause a motion sensor to activate.
• Test your system monthly. Always contact your alarm company before you test the system.
• Have your system tested by a technician annually or anytime you have an unexplained false activation.
• Educate everyone who lives or works at the alarm site on the proper operation of the system.
• Never give a key to someone who is not familiar with the alarm system.

Guidelines for Obtaining an Alarm Permit
The Township of Holmdel has adopted an ordinance regulating alarm systems within the Township. All existing and new systems must comply with the ordinance. An application form and copy of the ordinance may be picked up at Holmdel Police Headquarters, or downloaded from our Forms Page.

The application must be completed and returned to Police Headquarters as soon as possible. If we find that your alarm system complies with the requirements of the ordinance, a permit will be issued to you that will allow continued operation. The Holmdel Police Department will advise you of items that need to be changed or adjusted in order to comply with the alarm ordinance. Non-conforming alarm systems will be ordered removed.

False Alarms:
Due to an increased number of false alarms received by this Department, we request that in the event you are aware your alarm system has been activated accidentally, please call Police Headquarters immediately at 732-946-4400, and give your alarm permit number to the dispatcher. When it can be determined over the telephone that no problem exists at the alarm protected premises, there will be no police response to that premises. A false alarm that is cleared in this manner will not be charged to your record. However, excess false alarms, causing police or fire units to respond, will result in a summons requiring your appearance in Municipal Court.

Q. How many warnings can I receive before a summons is issued?
A. For the first and second false alarm in any 12 month period, a warning will be issued.

For the third false alarm in any 12 month period, a fine of $150 shall be paid to the Township.

For the fourth or any subsequent false alarm, a fine of $300 shall be paid to the Township.

Q. How long can my outdoor audible alarm sound?
A. All audible signaling device shall be equipped with a timing device to limit the sounding of the signaling device to fifteen (15) minutes or less – (see General Licensing, Chapter IV, Section 4-1).

Q. What is the fee for a permit?
A. Local alarms shall be registered, but no fee is charged.

Q. What is a central station response code?
A. This is question #9 on the application form. This is a code that is given to your alarm company or monitoring station when your alarm sounds. WE DO NOT WANT THE CODE NUMBER THAT OPERATES YOUR ALARM SYSTEM.

6. How do I Obtain a Firearms ID Card/Permit, etc?

For all firearms FAQ see the New Jersey State Police page at: http://www.njsp.org/faq.html

7. How do I File a Complaint Against a Police Officer?

You can call or come to Police Headquarters at any time. If the Internal Affairs Officer is not available, any Police Officer will take your complaint.

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Seat Belt Safety

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1. My son is 7 years old and weights 83 pounds. Is he required to be in a booster seat?

No. When the child has reached the 80-pound plateau, he is no longer required to be in a booster seat. He is required to wear a seat belt

2. My daughter is 8 years old but weights 76 pounds. Does she need a booster seat?

No. When she reached the age 8 she is exempt from the booster seat portion of the law, but is required to be in a seat belt.

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Sewer Collection

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1. How can I pay my sewer bill?

The Township offers several convenient ways to pay taxes:

• Hand Delivery – Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Postal Delivery – Mail to:
  • Holmdel Township 4 Crawfords Corner Road Holmdel, NJ 07733 ATTN: Tax Office
• Pay online – Click on the link “Online Payments” (Link) a fee of $1.95 is assessed for each transaction
• Sign up for Direct Withdrawal – Let us remember to make your payments for you. Submit application (Link) and voided check. Payments will be automatically debited from your account on the 6th of each quarter

2. How do I change my address?

All address change requests must be submitted utilizing our change of address form (PDF) or via formal written request.

3. I am a Landlord; can I have the bill sent directly to my tenant?

Yes. Simply fill out a change of address form and request the “Bill To” name to be that of your current tenant.

Note that this is for bill mailing purposes only. Sewer charges are billed to the property, not the occupant, therefore should your tenant neglect to pay these charges, you as the owner, are the responsible party. Failure to pay sewer charges can ultimately lead to your property being listed for tax sale.

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Temporary Handicapped Parking Placards

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1. Where can I get the application for a temporary handicapped placard?

The application form can be picked up at Holmdel Police Headquarters during normal business hours.

2. What is the charge for the handicapped parking placard?

The fee for the windshield placard is $4. This $4 fee must be in the form of a check or money order made payable to New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. We cannot accept cash because the form, along with the fee, must be sent to Motor Vehicle Services.

3. How long is the placard good for?

The initial placard is good for a period of 6 months from the date of issue. The person with the disability may be re-certified by their qualified practitioner for an additional 6-month period (limited to one time), and requires an additional $4 fee.

4. Does the disabled person have to have a driver’s license?

No. Motor Vehicle Services will assign a number.

5. How long do I have to wait to get the placard?

Under most circumstances the temporary handicapped placard can be issued the same day or the following business day between business hours, if the chief is available to sign the application. The following criteria must be met before the placard can be issued:

• The resident has filled out and signed his/her section of the form correctly.


• The doctor has filled out and signed his/her section of the form correctly.


• A check or money order in amount of $4 payable to NJ Division of Motor Vehicles is received.

The most common reasons for not being able to issue a placard the same day:

Person has not brought a check or money order in amount of $4.00 payable to NJ Division of Motor Vehicles, along with the application.

Person wants to pay by cash which we cannot accept.

The doctor has not filled out the three-part form which is necessary. A note, or prescription, from the doctor is not acceptable.

6. Is this the placard that hangs from the vehicle’s mirror?

Yes, the old type was placed on the dashboard.

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Test

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1. What is the name of today's trainer.

Your trainer is Nicole Blakely.

2. Where do I find today's weather?

You can go to The National Weather Service at weather.com

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Zoning

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1. What is Zoning?

Zoning is the delineation of districts and the establishment of regulations governing the use, placement, spacing, and size of land and buildings. A zoning permit is required for commencement of a use, or change of use, or the erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration, conversion or installation of a structure.

2. What is the difference between the Zoning Department and the Zoning Board of Adjustement?

The Zoning Department reviews applications for compliance with township regulations. If denied by the Zoning Officer the applicant has the ability to appear before the Zoning Board of Adjustment to seek relief from the township regulations.

3. What are the setbacks for my zone?

The Zoning Office frequently receives calls requesting setbacks for pools, sheds, additions, gazebos, etc. Each zone has its own requirements. Once the zone is identified, the setbacks can easily be determined.

4. What zone is a specific piece of property located in?

Please either come into the Zoning Office in person or send an email please include the block and lot, address, and phone number you can be reached and someone from the Zoning Office will respond with the requested information.

5. I'm buying a new house in Holmdel and I want to know if I can fit a pool in my backyard before I sign the papers?

A current survey is required in order to make this determination. Please understand that we cannot guarantee a proper determination if you do not present a current survey and a pool plan.

6. I cannot find a copy of my survey. Can I use Google Earth or MapQuest for my survey?

No. Google Earth and MapQuest images are not acceptable. In most cases, a copy of the property survey is attached to the official documents received at the time of transfer of title. It might be possible to obtain copies of the survey from the attorney who handled the real estate transfer or from the surveyor who performed the original work. If still cannot find a copy of your survey then you will have to have a new survey prepared by a licensed surveyor.

7. What is a survey?

A survey is a drawing document prepared by a land surveyor. It indicates all physical improvements on a property including, but not limited to, buildings, driveways, walkways, swimming pools, decks, fences, patios, parking lots, sheds, etc. The survey will also indicate any restrictions, covenants, or easements connected with the property. The survey that is submitted with your application must accurately depict the conditions of the property existing at the time of application submission. The survey must also be drawn to scale and contain the surveyor's information. Many zoning questions cannot be answered unless an accurate survey of the property is presented.

8. My application was denied by the Zoning Officer, what can I do?

You can either modify the project to conform with the adopted ordinances or make application to deviate from the particular zoning requirement by obtaining a variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

9. What is considered when reviewing my zoning application?

There are several considerations such as easements, coverage, setbacks, heights of structures, proximity to wetlands and properties that front on 2 or more streets that can present a problem.

10. How do I find out more about zoning requirements?

Contact the Zoning Office and ask the Zoning Clerk or the Zoning Officer.

11. How do I get a zoning permit for my project or improvement?

You or your contractor must come in person to the Zoning Office and submit a survey with the location of the project or improvement, plans of the project or improvement, complete the zoning permit application, and pay the fee for the permit.

12. How do I get a Zoning Permit application?

Please visit the Office or download the form (PDF).

13. How do I get a survey of my property?

In most cases, a copy of the property survey is attached to the official documents received at the time of transfer of title. It might be possible to obtain copies of the survey from the attorney who handled the real estate transfer or from the surveyor who performed the original work. If still cannot find a copy of your survey then you will have to have a new survey prepared by a licensed surveyor.

14. How do contact the Zoning Office?

Call the main number 732-946-2820 and dial extension 1301 or send an email.