Do I Need a Permit to Build a Patio in Lake Mohawk?
You’re considering a new patio. It’s exciting, isn’t it? The prospect of expanding your outdoor living space is really something to look forward to. Maybe a little nerve-racking. After all, it’s a considerable investment. But, think about it; It’s money well-spent allowing friends and family to gather together outside, creating wonderful memories, where you don’t have to worry about anyone spilling drinks on the couch or carpet.
And whether you’re in Sparta, Blairstown, Branchville, Green, or Hampton, NJ, we usually get a solid seven months of outdoor enjoyment. People gushing over your Tulips, Hyacinths, and Daffodils in the spring. Warm summer barbecues with cold drinks in the moonlight. Roasting S’mores over the fire pit with the kids in the fall. And then where do you put the grill? How big of a table do you get? What color cushions? How are we going to light the area? I love those old-school kerosene lanterns! Or do we go with Tiki torches? So many possibilities!
But wait. Before you place the order for that LED lighted umbrella, many towns require a permit before the work is started. And there are a few reasons as to why.
I made a quick phone call to the Zoning Officer in the Sparta Building Department to get some more information. Here in Sparta, like most towns, you will need a permit. But before you cry “Government money grab!” there are legitimate considerations that need to be addressed before getting a patio installed. One of the bigger points is what is known as impervious surface. This referee to structures that prevent rainwater from easily being absorbed into the ground. That includes pavers, crushed stone, decks, and patios, among others.
Having too large of an impervious surface and adversely affect the natural environment in your area, causing a number of problems around your home, like:
Flooding around your home
Flooded basement
Excessive run-off
Erosion
Iced-over walkways and driveways
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has a very good Q&A page that outlines some of the issues caused by excessive run-off.
To mitigate any potential problems, getting a permit will allow for review of the plans to determine whether or not your yard is capable of handling the size patio you want built. Will you need drainage? In which direction does the slope of the patio need to face? Should planting areas be placed inside the patio to help with drainage? These are all consideration that will help protect you, your home, your patio, the environment around you, and your investment.
If you’re interested in finding out what ordinances you have to consider when making improvements to your home, the Zoning Officer at Sparta Township Town Hall pointed me to detailed information on their website that allows you to search for anything and everything when it comes to making improvements to your home or yard. And their information on Sparta’s website details what kind of permits will be required for your patio.
You should have other documentation at your ready for a smooth process, like:
Property survey – This will indicate where your property lines are, so your new living space isn’t built too close to your neighbor’s property.
Septic system diagram – If you have a septic system, know that they generally don’t like having heavy structures built on top of them or having leeching fields inadvertently dug up.
Design plan – Either a professional drawing or a rough sketch will work.
Other considerations – These may need review for special approval, like non-driveway access or if your home faces two roads.
It can be confusing, so a competent and experienced landscaper will likely be the one taking care getting the permits for you, including getting an up-to-date survey if needed. And when your patio is done and the grill is ready, just remember that I like my burgers medium to medium-rare.
Sierra Landscape Management is ready to discuss your dreams for a beautiful and functional outdoor living space that allows your family to create new memories. We understand the thought of doing this yourself can be overwhelming. Our experienced team of backyard experts is ready to guide the process every step of the way. Click the button below to get started with your new backyard.