[Ord. No. 77:1]
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "1977 Borough of New Milford Land Use Regulations."
[Ord. No. 77:1]
It is the intent and purpose of this chapter to:
a. 
Encourage action to guide the appropriate use or development of all lands in the Borough in a manner which will promote the public health, safety, morals and general welfare.
b. 
Secure safety from fire, flood, panic and other natural and man-made disasters.
c. 
Provide adequate light, air and open space.
d. 
Ensure that the development of the Borough does not conflict with the development and general welfare of neighboring municipalities.
e. 
Promote the establishment of appropriate population densities and concentrations that will contribute to the well-being of persons, neighborhoods and the entire municipality as well as the preservation of the environment.
f. 
Encourage the appropriate and efficient expenditure of public funds by the coordination of public development with land use policies.
g. 
Provide sufficient space in appropriate locations for a variety of residential, recreational, commercial and industrial uses and open space, both public and private, according to their respective environmental requirements.
h. 
Encourage the location and design of transportation routes which will promote the free flow of traffic while discouraging location of such facilities and routes which result in congestion or blight.
i. 
Promote a desirable visual environment through creative development techniques and good civic design and arrangements.
j. 
Promote the conservation of open space and valuable natural resources and prevent urban sprawl and degradation of the environment through improper use of land.
k. 
Encourage coordination of the various public and private procedures and activities shaping land development with a view to lessening the costs of such development and to the more efficient use of land.
l. 
Establish orderly and uniform procedures relating to land use and development regulation.
[Ord. No. 77:1]
a. 
It is not intended by this chapter to repeal, abrogate, annul or in any way impair or interfere with existing provisions of other laws or any private restrictions placed upon property by covenant, deed or other private agreement unless repugnant hereto.
b. 
Where this chapter imposes a greater restriction upon the use of buildings or premises or upon the height of buildings or lot coverage or requires greater lot area or larger yards or other open spaces than are imposed or required by such rules, regulations or permits or by such private restrictions, the provisions of this chapter shall control.
[Ord. No. 77:1; Ord. No. 85:1 § 1; Ord. No. 91:16 § I; Ord. No. 93:30 § I; Ord. No. 97:03 § 1; Ord. No. 97:09 § 1; Ord. No. 2008:06; Ord. No. 2011:24; Ord. No. 2013:19; Ord. No. 2014:13; Ord. No. 2014:24; Ord. No. 2016:05; Ord. No. 2018:15]
As used in this chapter:
ACCESSORY BUILDING
Shall mean a building, the use of which is incidental to that of the main building which is located on the same lot.
ACCESSORY USE
Shall mean a use naturally, normally and customarily incident and subordinate to the main use of the premises or lot.
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
Shall mean the Borough Administrator, official or employee as designated by the governing body of the Borough of New Milford.
ADVERTISING SIGN
Shall mean a sign directing attention to a business, commodity, service or entertainment conducted, sold or offered elsewhere than upon the premises where the sign is maintained including a billboard sign. An "advertising sign" also includes a sign directing attention to a product or service offered upon the premises but which could be offered elsewhere.
ALTERATION OF BUILDING
Shall mean a change in the supporting members of a building or an addition to or diminution of a building; a change in use to a different use or to a use of greater intensity; an enlargement of a use; a conversion of a building or of a part thereof; or removal of a building from one location to another on the same lot or a different lot.
APARTMENT
Shall mean one or more dwelling rooms, as regulated in this chapter, with private bath and kitchen facilities, comprising an independent self-contained dwelling unit in a larger building.
APPLICANT
Shall mean a developer submitting an application for land development (minor subdivision, major subdivision, site plan review, conditional use or zoning variance).
APPLICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT
Shall mean the application form and all accompanying documents and fees required by this chapter in consideration for approval of a subdivision, plat, site plan, conditional use or zoning variance.
AREA
Shall mean the surface measured on a horizontal plane.
BANK
Shall mean a business establishment authorized to perform financial transactions such as receiving and lending money, but not including check cashing stores or pawnshops.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
BASEMENT
Shall mean a story in a building having a floor below the finished grade at any point on the periphery of the building and having a structural ceiling level at least three (3') feet above the average finished grade along any side of the building. See also "cellar" and "story."
[Ord. No. 2018:15]
BILLBOARD
Shall mean a structure erected for the display of advertisements.
BLOCK
Shall mean that property abutting on one side of a street and lying between two nearest intersecting or intercepting streets.
BUILDING
Shall mean any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy. Whenever the term "building" is used in this chapter, it shall include "as hereinafter defined for the purpose of this chapter"; the term "building" shall be construed as if followed by the words "or portion thereof."
BUILDING COVERAGE
Shall mean the percentage of the lot area covered by buildings or other structures, including residences, garages, sheds, porches, cabanas and all buildings or structures with roofed areas, but shall exclude open decks. Building coverage shall be computed by using the outside building dimensions projected on a horizontal plane, including but not limited to cantilevers, roof overhangs, bay windows or other parts of the building.
[Ord. No. 2014:24; Ord. No. 2018:15]
BUILDING HEIGHT.
See Height of Building.
BULLETIN BOARD
Shall mean a sign with movable letters, words or numbers indicating the names of persons associated with or events conducted upon the premises where such sign is maintained. This sign is incorporated into the total square footage permitted under this chapter. The sign may be either permanent or a mobile type.
BUSINESS SIGN
Shall mean a sign directing attention to the name of a business, commodity, service or entertainment conducted, sold or offered upon the premises where the sign is maintained.
CANOPY OR AWNING SIGN
Shall mean a sign, other than a projection sign, mounted on the canopy or awning of any building and identifying the name or address of the building or an establishment contained therein.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
Shall mean a governmental acquisition of real property or major construction project.
CELLAR
Shall mean a space in a building with a structural ceiling level less than four (4') feet above the average finished grade along any side of the building facing a street.
[Ord. No. 2018:15]
CIRCULATION
Shall mean systems, structures and physical improvements for the movement of people, goods, water, air, sewage or power by such means as streets, highways, railways, waterways, towers, airways, pipes and conduits and the handling of people and goods by such means as terminals, stations, warehouses and other storage buildings or transshipment points.
COMMERCIAL LAUNDRY
Shall mean an establishment providing washing, drying and/or dry-cleaning machines that are not available to the public for self-service use.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
COMMERCIAL RECREATION
Shall mean a building, group of buildings or outdoor facilities used for recreational purposes and operated as a business and open to the public for a fee, including skating and roller rinks, indoor batting cages, indoor play areas, sports fields, recreation centers, and indoor swimming pools or tennis courts.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
COMMERCIAL SCHOOL
Shall mean an educational or training establishment operated for a business, including the instruction of language, math, test preparation, dance, fine or applied arts, martial arts, business, computers or the like.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
COMMON OPEN SPACE
Shall mean an open space area shown on a recorded subdivision and designed and intended for the use or enjoyment of residents and owners of two or more lots. "Common open space" may contain such complementary structures and improvements as may be approved by the Planning Board as necessary and appropriate for the use or enjoyment of residents and owners of the lots involved.
COMMON OWNERSHIP
Shall mean two or more contiguous parcels of real property in the same ownership.
CONDITIONAL USE
Shall mean a use permitted in a particular zone only upon a showing that such use in a specified location will comply with the conditions and standards for the location or operation of such use as contained in this chapter and upon the issuance of an authorization therefor by the Planning Board.
CORNER LOT
Shall mean a parcel of land not over seventy-five (75') feet in width at the junction of and fronting on two intersecting streets. Insofar as the size of a parcel located at the junction and fronting on two intersecting streets is in excess of those dimensions, its excess area shall be treated the same as an interior lot.
COURTS
Shall mean an open, uncovered and unoccupied space on the same lot as a building where such space is enclosed wholly or partly by buildings, walks or other enclosing devices.
a. 
Inner Court: Any court enclosed wholly by buildings, walks or other devices.
b. 
Outer Court: A court extending to an opening upon a street, public alley or other approved open space that is not less than fifteen (15') feet wide or upon a required yard.
DECK
Shall mean a roofless structure, the floor height of which is more than twelve (12") inches above the finished grade measured at any point of the structure.
[Ord. No. 2014:24]
DENSITY
Shall mean the permitted number of dwelling units per gross area of land to be developed.
DEPTH OF LOT
Shall mean the distance between its mean front lot line and its mean rear lot line.
DEVELOPER
Shall mean the legal or beneficial owner or owners of a lot or of any land proposed to be included in a proposed development, including the holder of an option or contract to purchase or other person having an enforceable proprietary interest in such land.
DEVELOPMENT
Shall mean the division of a parcel of land into two or more parcels; the construction, reconstruction, conversion, structural alteration, relocation or enlargement of any building or other structure or of any mining, excavation or landfill; and any use or change in use of any building or other structure or land or extension of use of land, for which permission may be required pursuant to this chapter.
DEVELOPMENT REGULATION
Shall mean a Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Ordinance, Site Plan Ordinance, Official Map Ordinance or other Borough regulation of the use and development of land, or amendment thereto, adopted and filed pursuant to Chapter 291, Laws of New Jersey 1975.
DRAINAGE
Shall mean the removal of surface water or groundwater (subsurface water) from land by drainage pipes or other conduits, grading or other means and includes control of runoff to minimize erosion and sedimentation during and after construction or development and means necessary for water supply preservation as prevention or alleviation of flooding.
DRAINAGE RIGHT-OF-WAY
Shall mean the lands required for the installation of stormwater sewers or drainage ditches or required along a natural stream or watercourse for preserving the channel and providing for the flow of water therein to safeguard the public against flood damage in accordance with Chapter 1 of Title 58 of the New Jersey Statutes Annotated.
DWELLING
Shall mean any building which is designed for or occupied, in part or whole, as a house, residence or sleeping place for one or more persons, either permanently or transiently.
DWELLING UNIT
Shall mean a building or portion thereof used for living purposes by one family and having sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitary facilities for its exclusive use.
[Ord. No. 2014:13]
EASEMENT
Shall mean an encumbrance or grant of an estate in lands, distinct from ownership, to use in some way the lands of another.
EROSION
Shall mean the detachment and movement of soil or rock fragments by water, wind, ice and gravity.
FAMILY
Shall mean any number of individuals related by blood or marriage, including servants, living together as a single housekeeping unit.
FINAL APPROVAL
Shall mean the official action of the Planning Board taken on a preliminarily approved major subdivision or site plan after all conditions, engineering plans and other requirements have been completed or fulfilled and the required improvements have been installed or guaranties properly posted for their completion, or approval conditioned upon the posting of such guaranties.
FINAL PLAT
Shall mean the final map of all or a portion of the subdivision which is presented to the Planning Board for final approval in accordance with regulations established by this chapter and which, if approved, shall be filed with the proper County Recording Officer.
FIREPROOF CONSTRUCTION
Shall mean and be defined in accordance with the Borough Building Code.
FIRE RESISTANCE
Shall mean that property of materials or their assemblies which prevents or retards the passage of excessive heat, hot gases or flames under conditions of use.
FLASHING SIGN
Shall mean an illuminated sign, whether stationary or rotating, which exhibits changing light intensity or color effects.
FLOOD HAZARD AREA ZONE AE
Shall mean the lands located within Zone AE on the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
[Added 12-19-2022 by Ord. No. 2022:25]
FLOOR AREA
Shall mean:
a. 
For the purpose of computing "floor area" in determining minimum residential floor area, the area of all floors computed by measuring the inside dimension of the outside walls in a building, excluding the floors of the following: crawl spaces, cellars, porches, breezeways, patios, terraces, garages and carports. The "floor area" of a second floor room or attic shall be included if the ceiling height is at least seven (7') feet, notwithstanding that the room or attic has minor ceiling slopes, provided that these walls are at least five (5') feet in height.
b. 
For the purpose of computing off-street parking requirements and floor area ratio, "floor area" shall be defined as the area of all floors computed by using the dimensions of the outside walls of a building, excluding the basement area only if it is used for storage or mechanical equipment for heating and ventilation and is not devoted to the principal use of the building, and also excluding any "floor area" devoted to off-street parking or loading facilities, including aisles, ramps and maneuvering space.
FLOOR AREA RATIO
Shall mean the sum of the area of all floors of buildings or structures compared to the total area of the site.
FRONT YARD
Shall mean an open unoccupied space on the same lot with a building situated between the street wall of the building extended to the side lines of the lot and the front lot line.
GOVERNING BODY
Shall mean the Mayor and Council of the Borough of New Milford.
GRADE PLANE
[Ord. No. 2018:15; amended 12-19-2022 by Ord. No. 2022:25]
a. 
Shall mean a reference plane representing the average elevation of the finished ground adjoining the building at all exterior walls, except for areas or portions of the building area of a lot located within the Flood Hazard Area Zone AE in the Residential A and Residential B zones. The grade plane shall be calculated by averaging the ground elevation at the primary building corners and the midpoint of the primary exterior walls. The existing grade shall not be altered by more than two feet.
b. 
In areas or portions of the building area of a lot located within the Flood Hazard Area Zone AE, shall mean the more restrictive of the base flood elevation or advisory base flood elevation of the flood hazard area plus two feet.
GROUND SIGN
Shall mean a detached sign erected upon or supported by the ground.
HEALTH CLUB
Shall mean an establishment that provides facilities for physical exercise such as aerobics, running, jogging, weight lifting, game courts, swimming facilities, and accessory saunas, showers, massage rooms and lockers, within an enclosed building or buildings.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
HEIGHT OF BUILDING
Shall mean the vertical distance measured from the grade plane of the building to the highest point of the roof.
HOME PROFESSIONAL OFFICE
Shall mean the part of a dwelling used by a resident of that dwelling to conduct a business subject to the restrictions of the accessory use for the same.
IDENTIFICATION SIGN
Shall mean a sign, other than a bulletin board sign, indicating the name of a permitted use, the name or address of a building or the name of the management thereof.
ILLUMINATED SIGN
Shall mean a sign designed to give forth artificial light or to reflect such light.
IMPERVIOUS LOT COVERAGE
Shall mean the percentage of the lot area covered by principal and accessory buildings, structures and uses, including but not limited to decks, driveways, patios, walkways, parking areas, garages, pools and all areas covered by any materials other than vegetation or soil.
[Ord. No. 2014:24; Ord. No. 2018:15]
INSTRUCTIONAL SIGN
Shall mean a sign conveying instructions with respect to the premises where it is maintained such as signs designating "No Parking," "No Trespassing" and similar signs.
INTERESTED PARTY
Shall mean in a criminal or quasi-criminal proceeding, any citizen of the State and, in the case of a civil proceeding in any court or in an administrative proceeding before a municipal agency, any person, whether residing within or without the municipality, whose right to use, acquire or enjoy property is or may be affected by any action taken under this chapter or whose right to use, acquire or enjoy property under this chapter or under any other law of this State or of the United States has been denied, violated or infringed by an action or a failure to act under this chapter.
INTERIOR LOT
Shall mean a lot having a frontage on only one street.
INTERNAL ROADWAY
Shall mean a driveway providing access from an exterior public street to parking areas and/or private driveways.
LAND
Shall mean and include improvements and fixtures on, above or below the surface.
LOT
Shall mean a parcel of land, the location, dimensions and boundaries of which are determined by the latest official record, and occupied or intended to be occupied by one building and accessory buildings and uses, including such open spaces as are required by this chapter.
LOT AREA
Shall mean the total square unit contents included within a lot, measured in square feet.
MAINTENANCE GUARANTY
Shall mean any security other than cash which may be accepted by the Borough for the maintenance of any improvements required by this chapter.
MAJOR SUBDIVISION
Shall mean all subdivisions not classified as minor subdivisions.
MANUFACTURE
Shall mean the converting of raw, unfinished materials or products, or any or either of them, into an article or articles or substance of a different character or for use for a different purpose.
MASTER PLAN
Shall mean a composite of one or more written or graphic proposals for the development of the Borough as set forth in and adopted pursuant to Section 19 of Chapter 291 of the Laws of New Jersey 1975.
MEDICAL OFFICE
Shall mean a building or portion thereof providing diagnostic, therapeutic, or preventive medical, osteopathic, chiropractic, dental, psychological and similar or related treatment by a practitioner or group of practitioners licensed to perform such services to ambulatory patients on an outpatient basis only, and without facilities for inpatient care, major surgical procedures, or emergency and urgent care. A medical office may also contain associated in-house ancillary services such as in-house diagnostic testing facilities, physical therapy, medical counseling services, and similar services.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
MID-RISE APARTMENT BUILDING
Shall mean a building not exceeding four stories in height containing apartments/townhomes, each of which shall be contained on a single floor elevation and shall be served by common interior hallways and central elevator, stairway and vestibule facilities. Apartments/townhomes within a mid-rise apartment building may be offered as either condominiums or rental units at the discretion of the owner/sponsor of the project.
MINOR SUBDIVISION
Shall mean any subdivision containing not more than three building plots fronting on an improved street, not involving any new street or road or the extension of municipal facilities and not adversely affecting the development of the remainder of the parcel or adjoining property and not in conflict with any provisions or portion of the Master Plan, Official Map, Zoning Ordinance or this chapter.
MOTOR VEHICLE FUELING STATION
Shall mean a building or other structure or premises used for the retail dispensing or sales of vehicular fuels, including the retail sales of oil, grease, anti-freeze, tires, batteries, and automobile accessories.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
MOTOR VEHICLE SERVICE STATION
Shall mean a repair shop for motor vehicles including major repairs and clearly accessory services, including the retail dispensing or sales of vehicular fuels, but not including spray booths for painting of vehicles.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
MULTIFAMILY DWELLING
Shall mean a building containing three or more dwelling units occupied or intended to be occupied by persons living independently of each other, or a group of such buildings.
[Ord. No. 2014:13]
MULTIFAMILY DWELLING, LOW-RISE
Shall mean a multifamily dwelling one to two and one-half (2 1/2) stories in height.
[Ord. No. 2014:13]
MULTIFAMILY DWELLING, MID-RISE
Shall mean a multifamily dwelling three to five and one-half (5 1/2) stories in height.
[Ord. No. 2014:13]
MUNICIPAL AGENCY
Shall mean the Borough Planning Board or the Board of Adjustment.
NONCONFORMING LOT
Shall mean a lot the area, dimensions or location of which was lawful prior to December 18, 1958, or any subsequent revisions or amendments thereto, but which fails to conform to the requirements of the zone in which it is located by reason of such adoption, revision or amendment.
NONCONFORMING USE
Shall mean any building or structure, or any use of a building or structure, which is not in conformity with the regulations herein prescribed but which was legally authorized at the time of the adoption of this chapter.
OFFICE
Shall mean a room or group of rooms used for conducting the affairs of a business, profession, service, industry or government, and generally furnished with desks, tables, files and communication equipment, including offices of general, business, executive, legal, accounting, architect, planning, engineer, real estate, contractor and employment agencies but excluding medical offices.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
OFFICIAL MAP
Shall mean a map adopted in accordance with the Official Map and Building Permit Act, N.J.S.A. 40:55-1.30 et seq., or any prior act authorizing such adoption and which is continued by this chapter pursuant to Article 5 of Chapter 291 of the Laws of New Jersey 1975. Such a map shall be deemed conclusive with respect to the location, width and extent of streets and other areas shown thereon, as provided in Article IV of this chapter.
OFF-SITE
Shall mean located outside the lot lines of the lot in question but within the property, of which the lot is a part, which is the subject of a development application or contiguous portion of a street right-of-way.
OFF-TRACT
Shall mean not located on the property which is the subject of a development application nor on a contiguous portion of a street right-of-way.
ONE-FAMILY DWELLING
Shall mean a separate building designed for or occupied exclusively by one family.
ON-SITE
Shall mean located on the lot in question.
ON-TRACT
Shall mean located on the property which is the subject of a development application or on a contiguous portion of a street or right-of-way.
OPEN SPACE
Shall mean any parcel or area of land or water essentially unimproved and set aside, dedicated, designated or reserved for public or private use or enjoyment or for the use and enjoyment of owners and occupants of land adjoining or neighboring such "open space," provided that such areas may be improved with only those buildings, structures, streets and off-street parking and other improvements that are designed to be incidental to the natural openness of the land.
OUTDOOR CAFE
Shall mean an outdoor designated area that is located on the property of an existing restaurant, bar or retail store or on the public sidewalk or the right-of-way immediately adjacent to the property of an existing restaurant, bar or retail store and where food and beverages that are normally offered to the public inside the restaurant, bar or retail store are offered and served to the public in the designated outdoor area.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
OWNER
Shall mean any person having sufficient proprietary interest in the land sought to be developed to commence and maintain proceedings to develop the same under this chapter.
PARKING AREA
Shall mean an open area, other than a street, driveway or public way, used for the parking of motor vehicles and available for public use whether for a fee or as a service or privilege for clients, customers, suppliers or residents.
PARKING SPACE
Shall mean an off-street parking space available for the parking of one motor vehicle and being an area nine (9') feet wide and twenty (20') feet long, exclusive of passageways and driveways appurtenant thereto and giving access thereto, and having direct access to a street.
PARTY IMMEDIATELY CONCERNED
Shall mean for the purposes of notice, any applicant for development, the owners of the subject property and all owners of property and government agencies entitled to notice under subsection 30-3.4k of this chapter.
PATIO
Shall mean a roofless structure, the maximum height of which is no more than twelve (12") inches above the finished grade measured at the point of the structure.
[Ord. No. 2014:24]
PAVEMENT
Shall mean a created surface, such as brick, stone, concrete, or asphalt placed on the land to facilitate passage; in reference to a street, pavement shall mean that part of a street having an improved surface.
[Ord. No. 2014:24]
PERFORMANCE GUARANTY
Shall mean any security which may be accepted in lieu of a requirement that certain improvements be made before the Planning Board approves a plat, including cash, performance bonds, escrow agreements and other similar collateral or surety agreements, provided that the Borough shall not require more than 10% of the total "performance guaranty" in cash.
PERSONAL SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT
Shall mean an establishment engaged primarily in providing services involving the care of a person or his or her personal goods or apparel, including but not limited to beauty and barber shops, tailor shops, watch repair, clothing and shoe repair, laundromats, drop-off laundry and dry cleaners, nail salons and tanning salons, but not including tattoo parlors or massage parlors.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
PLAT
Shall mean the map of a subdivision or site plan.
PRELIMINARY APPROVAL
Shall mean the conferral of certain rights pursuant to this chapter prior to final approval after specific elements of a development plan have been agreed upon by the Planning Board and the applicant.
PRELIMINARY FLOOR PLANS AND ELEVATIONS
Shall mean architectural drawings prepared during early introductory stages of the design of a project illustrating in a schematic form its scope, scale and relationship to its site and immediate environs.
PRELIMINARY PLAT
Shall mean the preliminary map indicating the proposed layout of the subdivision which is submitted to the Administrative Officer for Planning Board consideration and tentative approval and meeting the requirements of this chapter.
PRIVATE DRIVEWAY
Shall mean a driveway providing access from an internal roadway to a private garage.
PRIVATE GARAGE
Shall mean a compartment in or structure appertaining to the main building on the same lot, designed to house not more than three motor vehicles for the purpose of storage only. Vehicles stored in such a garage must be the property of the owner or lessee of the premises, except that space for the storage of not more than one noncommercial vehicle may be rented. All of the garages shall be used to store noncommercial motor vehicles, with the exception that there may be stored therein one commercial motor vehicle having a registered gross weight of not more than 6,500 pounds. In Residential A, B and C Zones, all commercial vehicles shall at all times be confined wholly within said garage and shall not at any time, other than for delivery purposes, be parked or left standing at any place outside the garage.
PROJECTING SIGN
Shall mean a sign erected perpendicular to the wall of a building including a sign similarly erected at the corner of a building and projecting out over a public sidewalk.
PUBLIC GARAGE
Shall mean a structure used for the housing for rental of steam, electric, or motor-driven vehicles, provided that such vehicles may be equipped for operation, have minor repairs made to them and be kept for hire or for sale, but such garage does not include a structure used as a showroom for model cars.
QUORUM
Shall mean the majority of the full authorized membership of a municipal agency.
REAR LOT LINE
Shall mean the lot line opposite to the street line, or, in the case of a corner lot, the "rear lot line" may be elected by the owner, provided that it is indicated on the plans as filed with the Code Enforcement Officer.
REAR YARD
Shall mean an open space on the same lot with the building, between the rear line of the building and the rear line of the lot, and unoccupied except for accessory buildings and open porches.
RESEARCH LABORATORY
Shall mean a facility for investigation into the natural, physical or social sciences, which may include engineering and product development.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
RESTAURANT
Shall mean a public establishment which serves food and drink primarily or exclusively for consumption on the premises. For the purposes of this chapter, a "bar" shall also be deemed a "restaurant" only if food is prepared, served and consumed on the premises.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
RETAIL STORE
Shall mean an establishment engaged in the selling or rental of merchandise (usually to the general public for personal use or household consumption, although they may also serve business and institutional clients) and in rendering services incidental to the sale of such goods.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
RESUBDIVISION
Shall mean the further division or relocation of lot lines of any lot or lots within a subdivision previously made and approved or recorded according to law or the alteration of any street or the establishment of any new streets within any subdivision previously made and approved or recorded according to law, but does not include conveyances so as to combine existing lots by deed or other instruments.
ROOF SIGN
Shall mean a sign erected on the roof of a building.
SCREENING
Shall mean a method of visually shielding one abutting or nearby structure or use from another by fencing, walls, berms, or reasonably sized plantings.
SEDIMENTATION
Shall mean the deposition of soil that has been transported from its site of origin by water, ice, wind, gravity or other natural means as a product of erosion.
SHED
Shall mean an accessory structure which is not used for the storage of cars but is generally used for the storage of equipment and other items. A shed is not used as a living quarter.
SHOPPING CENTER
Shall mean one or more buildings, or parts thereof, designed as a unit to be occupied by one or more retail stores and/or other uses permitted in the zone district in which the shopping center is located.
[Ord. No. 2016:05]
SIDE YARD
Shall mean an open unoccupied space on the same lot with a building, situated between the building and a side line of the lot and extending through from the front yard, or from the street where no front yard is required, to the rear yard or the rear line of the lot.
SIGN
Shall mean and include banners, streamers, whirling or lighting devices or any other type of attention-attracting device and may be a single-face or V-type structure.
SINGLE OWNERSHIP
Shall mean ownership of a separate parcel or tract of real property not contiguous to land in the same ownership or, if contiguous to land in the same ownership, is legally separated therefrom.
SITE PLAN
Shall mean a development plan of one or more lots on which is shown:
a. 
The existing and proposed conditions of the lot or lots, including but not necessarily limited to topography, vegetation, drainage, floodplains, marshes and waterways.
b. 
The location of all existing and proposed buildings, drives, parking spaces, walkways, means of ingress and egress, drainage facilities, utility services, landscaping, structures and signs, lighting and screening devices.
c. 
Any other information that may be reasonably required in order to make an informed determination pursuant to this chapter.
SKETCH PLAN
Shall mean the sketch map of a subdivision of sufficient accuracy to be used for the purpose of discussion and classification, and meeting the requirements of Article III of this chapter.
STORY
Shall mean that part of any building, exclusive of cellars but inclusive of basements, comprised between the level of one finished floor and the next higher finished floor, or, if there be no higher finished floor, then that part of the building comprised between the level of the highest finished floor and the top of the roof.
[Ord. No. 2018:15]
STORY, HALF
Shall mean any space partially within the roof framing where the clear height of not more than 50% of such space between the top of the floor beams and the structural ceiling level is seven feet six (7' 6") inches or more.
[Ord. No. 2018:15]
STREET
Shall mean any street, avenue, boulevard, road, lane, parkway, viaduct, alley or other way which is an existing State, County or Borough roadway, or a street or way shown upon a plat heretofore approved pursuant to law or approved by official action or a street or way on a plat duly filed and recorded in the office of the County Recording Officer prior to the appointment of a Planning Board and the grant to such Board of the power to review plats, and includes the land between the street lines, whether improved or unimproved, and may comprise pavement, shoulders, gutters, sidewalks, parking areas and other areas within the street lines.
STREET LINE
Shall mean the property line.
STRUCTURAL ALTERATION
Shall mean any change in the supporting members of a building, such as bearing walls or partitions, columns, beams or girders, except such alterations as may be ordered by the Code Enforcement Officer to maintain the safety of a building.
STRUCTURE
Shall mean a building or object comprised of materials or a combination of materials to form a construction for use, occupancy, or ornamentation whether installed on, above, or below the surface of land or water.
[Ord. No. 2014:24]
SUBDIVIDER
Shall mean any individual, firm, association, syndicate, copartnership, corporation, trust or any other legal entity commencing proceedings under this chapter to effect a subdivision of land hereunder for himself or for another.
SUBDIVISION
Shall mean:
a. 
The division of a lot, tract or parcel of land into two or more lots, sites or other divisions of land for the purpose, whether immediate or future, of sale or building development, except that the following divisions shall not be considered "subdivisions"; provided, however, that no new streets or roads are involved:
1. 
Divisions of land for agricultural purposes where the resulting parcels are three acres or larger in size.
2. 
Divisions of property by testamentary or intestate provisions.
3. 
Divisions of property upon court order.
b. 
"Subdivision" also includes resubdivision and, where appropriate to the context, relates to the process of subdividing or to the land or territory divided.
SUBDIVISION COMMITTEE
Shall mean a committee of at least three Planning Board members appointed by the Chairman of the Board for the purpose of classifying subdivisions in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and performing such other duties relating to land subdivision as may be conferred on the Committee by the Board.
TOWNHOME
Shall mean a multi-story, multifamily structure of more than two units, each with its own entrance accessed directly from the building exterior or an interior hallway with each dwelling unit being located one above the other.
TOWNHOUSE
Shall mean a one-family dwelling in a row of at least three such units in which each unit has its own front and rear access directly to the outside, no unit is located over another unit and each is separated from any other unit by one or more common fire-resistant walls.
TRACT
Shall mean one or more lots that are the subject of a development application and that are developed or planned to be developed in a comprehensive manner.
[Ord. No. 2014:24]
TWO-FAMILY DWELLING
Shall mean a separate building designed for or occupied exclusively by two families, wherein not more than four persons are lodged or boarded for compensation.
VARIANCE
Shall mean permission to depart from the literal requirements of the zoning provisions of this chapter.
VERTICAL ELEMENT IN FACADE DESIGN
Shall mean any architectural feature utilized to break the plane in a building facade, such as a bay window, box bay window, columns, horizontal offset or variation in materials.
[Ord. No. 2014:24]
WALL SIGN
Shall mean a sign painted on or a structure erected against the wall of a building with the exposed face of the sign in a parallel plane with the face of the wall at a distance of eighteen (18") inches or less from the wall measured perpendicularly.
[Ord. No. 77:1]
The present tense shall include the future; the singular number shall include the plural and the plural the singular; the word "lot" includes the word "plot"; the word "building" includes the word "structure"; the word "district" includes the word "zone"; the word "occupied" includes the words "designed or intended to be occupied"; the word "used" includes the words "arranged, designed or intended to be used"; the word "person" includes "individuals, firms, copartnerships and corporations"; and the word "shall" is always mandatory.
[Ord. No. 77:1; amended 8-23-2021 by Ord. No. 2021:14]
All municipal agencies shall adopt and may amend reasonable rules and regulations, not inconsistent with this chapter, for the administration of their functions, powers and duties and shall furnish a copy thereof to any person upon request and may charge a reasonable fee for such copy. Copies of all rules and regulations and amendments thereto shall be maintained in the office of the administrative officer.
[Ord. No. 77:1; Ord. No. 78:9; Ord. No. 91:16 § 2; Ord. No. 92:13 § I; Ord. No. 92:20 § I; Ord. No. 93:26 § I; Ord. No. 94:06 § 1; Ord. No. 2009:08; Ord. No. 2014:03; amended 8-23-2021 by Ord. No. 2021:14]
a. 
Prior to the consideration of an application by the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment under the terms of this chapter, the applicant shall have paid a fee covering the initial application and applicable legal, planning and engineering review costs into an escrow account established for the purpose as per the following schedule, in aggregate:
Schedule of Fees and Escrow Deposits
Subdivisions
Fees
Escrows
Minor subdivision or resubdivision
$100
$1,000
Major subdivision - preliminary approval
$200 + $50 per lot
$2,000
Major subdivision - final approval
$200
$1,600
Concept review, with review by Board's attorney
$50
$350
Concept review, with review by Board's attorney, engineer and/or planner
$50
$1,000
Site Plans
Fees
Escrows
Site plan - minor
$200
$1,000
Site plan: major preliminary or nonclassified
$200
$2,000
Site plan: major final or nonclassified
$50
$350
Concept review, with review by Board's attorney
$50
$350
Concept review, with review by Board's attorney, engineer and/or planner
$50
$1,000
Variances
Fees
Escrows
Residential bulk variance (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70c)
$350
$1,500 plus $250 per each additional bulk variance
Residential use variance (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70d)
$500
$2,500
Residential use variance with bulk variances/site plan approval
$750
$2,500 plus $250 per each additional bulk variance
Business/commercial bulk variance (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70c)
$1,000
$2,000
Business/commercial use variance (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70d)
$1,250
$3,500
Business/commercial use variance with bulk variances/site plan approval
$1,500
$3,500 plus $250 per each additional bulk variance
Miscellaneous
Fees
Escrows
Tax Map listing of property owners
$25
Appeals filed pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70a
$200
$800
Interpretations filed pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70b
$200
$800
Appeals filed pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-34
$750
$1,000
Appeals filed pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-36
$750
$1,000
Certificates of Nonconformity N.J.S.A. 40:55D-68:
Applications to Administrative Officer
$200
$350
Applications to Board of Adjustment
$200
$750
b. 
If the applicant is applying to the Planning Board or Board of Adjustment for approval under more than one of the items set forth in Subsections a and b above, then the applicant shall pay the higher of the two application fees set forth in those subsections. Only one application fee shall be charged per applicant.
c. 
Reapplication fees. All Planning Board/Board of Adjustment fees shall apply to any reapplication submitted by an applicant in cases of Board disapproval or voluntary withdrawal prior to Board action.
d. 
Charges to escrow account. The following charges shall be applied to the escrow account:
1. 
Charges for the professional review of the application.
2. 
Charges for letters of recommendation as a result of a review.
3. 
Telephone conferences.
4. 
Review of additional documents.
5. 
Writing of easements, resolutions and developer's agreements.
6. 
All costs related to special meetings requested by the applicant.
e. 
Escrow fees. All such fees for professional services are subject to increases during the course of the application process in the event that services rendered in connection with said application exceed those amounts originally deposited.
f. 
Professional fees: special meetings. Fees for services of Borough professionals, engineering, legal and/or other consultants, required during meetings requested by the applicant, shall be in addition to customary escrow and application fees established by this section. The sum of $1,750 per special session constitutes a fair and reasonable additional fee.
g. 
Ramps, elevators, decks and other structures provided for the handicapped or disabled, living in single- or multiple-family private dwellings, that require appearance before the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment for project approval, shall be exempt from all Board, engineering and legal fees associated with the application.
1. 
A physician letter confirming the need for such construction/devices shall be required.
2. 
All fees for personal legal and engineering professionals shall be the responsibility of the applicant.
h. 
Tax Map fee. Upon the approval of any minor or major subdivision, the applicant shall pay to the Borough of New Milford a fee of $50 per lot for the purpose of updating and amending the Borough Tax Map to reflect any necessary changes occasioned by the subdivision.
[Ord. No. 77:1; amended 8-23-2021 by Ord. No. 2021:14]
a. 
Time and place of regular and special meetings. Every municipal agency shall, by its rules, fix the time and place for holding its regular meetings for business authorized to be conducted by such agency. Regular meetings of the municipal agency shall be scheduled not less than once a month and shall be held as scheduled unless cancelled for lack of applications for development to process. The municipal agency may provide for special meetings at the call of the Chair, or on the request of any two of its members, which meetings shall be held on notice to the agency's members and the public in accordance with municipal regulations. No action shall be taken at any meeting without a quorum being present. All actions shall be taken by a majority vote of a quorum, except as otherwise required by this chapter.
b. 
Notice of meetings. All regular meetings and all special meetings shall be open to the public. Notice of all such meetings shall be given in accordance with municipal regulations. An executive session for the purpose of discussing and studying any matters to come before the agency shall not be deemed a regular or special meeting within the meaning of this chapter.
c. 
Minutes of meetings. Minutes of every regular or special meeting shall be kept and shall include the names of the persons appearing and addressing the municipal agency and of the persons appearing by attorney, the action taken by the municipal agency and the findings, if any, made by it and the reasons therefor. The minutes shall thereafter be made available for public inspection during normal business hours at the office of the Administrative Officer. Any interested party shall have the right to compel production of the minutes for use as evidence in any legal proceedings concerning the subject matter of such minutes. Such interested party may be charged a reasonable fee for reproduction of the minutes for their use.
[Ord. No. 77:1; Ord. No. 85:1 § 2; Ord. No. 91:16 § 3; amended 8-23-2021 by Ord. No. 2021:14]
a. 
Scope of hearings. The municipal agency shall hold a hearing on each application for development, except for sketch plat applications, or adoption, revision or amendment of the Master Plan.
b. 
Rules governing hearings. The municipal agency shall make the rules governing such hearings. Any maps and documents for which approval is sought at a hearing shall be on file and available for public inspection at least 10 days before the date of the hearing during normal business hours in the Building Department. The applicant may produce other documents, records or testimony at the hearing to substantiate or clarify or supplement the previously filed maps and documents.
c. 
Powers of the presiding officer. The officer presiding at the hearing or such person as they may designate shall have power to administer oaths and issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of relevant evidence, including witnesses and documents presented by the parties, and the provisions of the County and Municipal Investigations Law, P.L. 1953, c.38 (N.J.S.A. 2A:67A-1 et seq.), shall apply.
d. 
Testimony of witnesses. The testimony of all witnesses relating to an application for development shall be taken under oath or affirmation by the presiding officer, and the right of cross examination shall be permitted to all interested parties through their attorneys, if represented, or directly, if not represented, subject to the discretion of the presiding officer and to reasonable limitations as to time and number of witnesses.
e. 
Rules of evidence not applicable. Technical rules of evidence shall not be applicable to the hearing, but the agency may exclude irrelevant, immaterial or unduly repetitious evidence.
f. 
Verbatim recording of proceedings. The municipal agency shall provide for the verbatim recording of the proceedings by either stenographer or mechanical or electronic means. The municipal agency shall furnish a transcript, or duplicate recording in lieu thereof, on request to any interested party at their expense.
g. 
Decisions. The municipal agency shall include findings of fact and conclusions based thereon in each decision on any application for development and shall reduce the decision to writing. The municipal agency shall provide the findings and conclusions through:
1. 
A resolution adopted at a meeting held within the time period provided in the act for action by a municipal agency on the application for development; or
2. 
A memorializing resolution adopted at a meeting held no later than 45 days after the date of the meeting at which the municipal agency voted to grant or deny approval. Only the members of the municipal agency who voted for the action taken may vote on the memorializing resolution, and the vote of a majority of such members present at the meeting at which the resolution is presented for adoption shall be sufficient to adopt the resolution. The failure of a motion to approve an application shall be memorialized by resolution, as provided above, with those members voting against the motion for approval being the members eligible to vote on the memorializing resolution. The vote of any such resolution shall be deemed to be a memorialization of the action of the municipal agency; however, the date of the adoption of the resolution shall constitute the date of the decision for purposes of the mailing, filing and publications required by N.J.S.A. 40:55D-10. If the municipal agency fails to adopt a resolution or memorializing resolution as hereinabove specified, any interested party may apply to the Superior Court in a summary manner for an order compelling the municipal agency to reduce its findings and conclusions to writing within a stated time, and the cost of the application, including attorney's fees, shall be assessed against the municipality.
h. 
Copies of decisions to applicants and administrative officer. A copy of the decision shall be mailed by the municipal agency within 10 days of the date of decision to the applicant, or if represented then to their attorney, without separate charge, and to all who request a copy of the decision for a reasonable fee. A copy of the decision shall also be filed by the municipal agency in the office of the administrative officer. The administrative officer shall make a copy of such filed decision available to any interested party for a reasonable fee and available for public inspection at their office during reasonable hours.
i. 
Publication of decision. A brief notice of the decision shall be published in the official newspaper of the Borough, or in a newspaper of general circulation in the Borough. Such publication shall be arranged by the administrative officer, provided that nothing contained in this chapter shall be construed as preventing the applicant from arranging for a publication of the notice of the decision if they so desire. The period of time in which an appeal of the decision may be made shall run from the first publication of the decision, whether arranged by the municipality or the applicant.
j. 
Contents of notice of hearing. The contents of the notice of a hearing on an application for development or the adoption of a Master Plan pursuant to this chapter shall state the date, time and place of the hearing; the nature of the matters to be considered and, in the case of notices on applications for development, an identification of the property proposed for development by street address, if any, or by reference to lot and block numbers as shown on the current tax duplicate in the Borough Tax Assessor's office; and the location and times at which any maps and documents for which approval is sought are available pursuant to this chapter.
k. 
Notice of applications. Notice pursuant to Subsection k1, 4, 5, 6, and 7 of this subsection shall be given by the Secretary of the municipal agency. Notice pursuant to Subsection k2 shall be given by the applicant. The notice shall be given at least 10 days prior to the date of the hearing.
1. 
Public notice of a hearing on an application for development shall be given, except for conventional site plan review, minor subdivisions, sketch plats or final approval, provided that public notice shall be given in the event that relief is requested pursuant to Subsection 30-6.4 of this chapter as part of an application for development otherwise excepted herein from public notice. Public notice shall be given by publication in the official newspaper of the Borough or in a newspaper of general circulation in the Borough.
2. 
Notice of a hearing requiring public notice pursuant to Subsection k1, above shall be given by the applicant to the owners of all real property, as shown on the current tax duplicate, located within 200 feet in all directions of the property which is the subject of such hearing. Notice shall be given by serving a copy thereof on the property owner, as shown on the current tax duplicate, or their agent in charge of the property, or by mailing a copy thereof by certified mail to the property owner at their address as shown on the current tax duplicate. Notice to a partnership owner may be made by service upon any partner. Notice to a corporate owner may be made by service upon its President, a Vice President, Secretary or other person authorized by appointment or by law to accept service on behalf of the corporation.
3. 
Upon the written request of an applicant, the administrative officer of a municipality shall, within seven days, make and certify a list from the current tax duplicates of names and addresses of owners to whom the applicant is required to give notice pursuant to Subsection k2 above. The applicant shall be entitled to rely upon the information contained in such list, and failure to give notice to any owner not on the list shall not invalidate any hearing or proceeding. A sum of $10 shall be charged for such list.
4. 
Notice of all hearings on applications for development involving property located within 200 feet of an adjoining municipality shall be given by personal service or certified mail to the Clerk of such municipality.
5. 
Notice shall be given by personal service or certified mail to the Bergen County Planning Board of a hearing on an application for development.
6. 
Notice shall be given by personal service or certified mail to the Commissioner of Transportation of a hearing on an application for development of property adjacent to a state highway.
7. 
Notice shall be given by personal service or certified mail to the Director of the Division of State and Regional Planning of a hearing on an application for development of property which exceeds 150 acres or 500 dwelling units. Such notice shall include a copy of any maps or documents required to be on file with the Borough Clerk pursuant to Subsection 30-3.5 of this chapter.
8. 
The applicant shall file an affidavit of proof of service with the municipal agency holding the hearing on the application for development to prove compliance with Subsection k2 above.
l. 
Notice concerning Master Plan. Concerning the Master Plan, the Planning Board shall give:
1. 
Public notice of a hearing on adoption, revision or amendment of the Master Plan. Such notice shall be given by publication in the official newspaper of the Borough or in a newspaper of general circulation in the Borough at least 10 days prior to the date of the hearing.
2. 
Notice by personal service or certified mail to the Clerk of an adjoining municipality of all hearings on adoption, revision or amendment of a Master Plan involving property situated within 200 feet of such adjoining municipality at least 10 days prior to the date of any such hearing.
3. 
Notice by personal service or certified mail to the Bergen County Planning Board of:
(a) 
All hearings on the adoption, revision or amendment of the municipal Master Plan at least 10 days prior to the date of the hearing. Such notice shall include a copy of any such proposed Master Plan or any revision or amendment thereto.
(b) 
The adoption, revision or amendment of the Master Plan not more than 30 days after the date of such adoption, revision or amendment. Such notice shall include a copy of the Master Plan or revision or amendment thereto.
m. 
Effect of mailing notice. Any notice made by certified mail pursuant to Subsections k and l of this subsection shall be deemed complete upon mailing.
n. 
Notice of hearing on ordinance or capital improvement program and notice of action on capital improvement program or Official Map.
1. 
Notice by personal service or certified mail shall be made to the Clerk of an adjoining municipality of all hearings on the adoption, revision or amendment of a development regulation involving property situated within 200 feet of such adjoining municipality at least 10 days prior to the date of any such hearing.
2. 
Notice by personal service or certified mail shall be made to the Bergen County Planning Board of all hearings on the adoption, revision or amendment of any development regulation at least 10 days prior to the date of the hearing, and of the adoption, revision or amendment of the Borough capital improvement program or Borough Official Map not more than 30 days after the date of such adoption, revision or amendment. Any notice provided hereunder shall include a copy of the proposed development regulation, the municipal Official Map or the municipal capital program, or any proposed revision or amendment thereto, as the case may be.
3. 
Notice of hearings to be held pursuant to this subsection shall state the date, time and place of the hearing and the nature of the matters to be considered. Any notice by certified mail, pursuant to this subsection, shall be deemed complete upon mailing.
o. 
Filing of ordinances. This chapter or any revision or any amendment thereto shall not take effect until a copy thereof shall be filed with the Bergen County Planning Board. The Official Map of the Borough shall not take effect until filed with the Bergen County Recording Officer. Copies of this chapter and any revisions or amendments thereto shall be filed and maintained in the office of the Borough Administrator.
[Ord. No. 77:1; Ord. No. 85:1 § 3; Ord. No. 91:16 § IV; amended 8-23-2021 by Ord. No. 2021:14]
a. 
Appeal to governing body. Any interested party may appeal to the governing body any final decision of the Board of Adjustment approving an application for development pursuant to Subsection 30-7.4 of this chapter.
b. 
Time of appeal. Such appeal shall be made within 10 days of the date of publication of such final decision pursuant to Subsection 30-3.5i. The appeal to the governing body shall be made by serving the Borough Administrator in person or by certified mail with a notice of appeal specifying the grounds thereof and the name and address of the appellant and the name and address of their attorney, if represented. Such appeal shall be decided by the governing body only upon the record established before the Board of Adjustment.
c. 
Notice. Notice of the meeting to review the record below shall be given by the governing body by personal service or certified mail to the appellant, to those entitled to notice of a decision pursuant to Subsection 30-3.4h and to the Board of Adjustment at least 10 days prior to the date of the meeting. The parties may submit oral and written argument on the record at such meeting, and the governing body shall provide for verbatim recording and transcripts of such meeting pursuant to Subsection 30-3.4f.
d. 
Review by governing body. The governing body shall conclude a review of the record below not later than 45 days from the date of receipt of the transcript of the hearing unless the appellant consents, in writing, to an extension of such period. The appellant shall arrange for a transcript pursuant to Subsection 30-3.4f, or otherwise, for use by the governing body. Failure of the governing body to hold a hearing and conclude a review of the record below and to render a decision within such specified period, without such written consent of the appellant, shall constitute a decision affirming the action of the Board of Adjustment.
e. 
Action of governing body. The governing body may reverse, remand or affirm, wholly or in part, or may modify the final decision of the Board of Adjustment.
f. 
Vote required. The affirmative vote of a majority of the full authorized membership of the governing body shall be necessary to reverse, remand or modify any final action of the Board.
g. 
Stay of proceedings. An appeal to the governing body shall stay all proceedings in furtherance of the action in respect to which the decision appealed from was made unless the Board of Adjustment certifies to the governing body, after the notice of appeal shall have been filed with such Board, that by reasons of facts stated in the certificate a stay would, in its opinion, cause imminent peril to life or property. In such case, proceedings shall not be stayed other than by an order of the Superior Court on application upon notice to the Board of Adjustment and on good cause shown.
h. 
Copy of decision to applicant and publication. The governing body shall mail a copy of the decision to the appellant or, if represented, then to their attorney, without separate charge, and for a reasonable charge to any interested party who has requested it, not later than 10 days after the date of the decision. A brief notice of the decision shall be published in the official newspaper of the municipality or in a newspaper of general circulation in the municipality. Such publication shall be arranged by the administrative officer, provided that nothing contained herein shall be construed as preventing the applicant from arranging such publication if they so desire. The period of time in which an appeal to a court of competent jurisdiction may be made shall run from the first publication, whether arranged by the municipality or the applicant.
i. 
Right to court appeal. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to restrict the right of any party to obtain a review by any court of competent jurisdiction according to law.
[Ord. No. 77:1; Ord. No. 91:16 § V; amended 9-9-2019 by Ord. No. 2019:22; amended 8-23-2021 by Ord. No. 2021:14]
a. 
The governing body shall enforce this chapter. To that end, the governing body, subject to the assignment of responsibilities to other municipal agencies as hereinafter set forth, authorizes the issuance of specified permits, certificates or authorizations as a condition precedent to the erection, construction, alteration, repair, remodeling, conversion, removal or destruction of any building or structure, subdivision or resubdivision of any land.
b. 
Office of Zoning Officer. The governing body does hereby establish the Construction Official as the Zoning Officer for the purpose of issuing such permits, certificates or authorizations as are authorized hereunder, and they shall condition the issuance of such permits, certificates and authorizations upon the submission of such data, materials, plans, plats and information as is authorized hereunder and upon the express approval of the appropriate state, county or municipal agencies.
c. 
Duties of Zoning Officer and Police and Fire Departments.
1. 
The Zoning Officer shall perform such duties as are authorized hereunder but shall in no case, except under a written order of the Planning Board, Board of Adjustment or the Mayor and Council, issue any permit for the erection, placement or alteration of any building or grant any certificate of occupancy for any building or use where the proposed erection, placement, alteration or use thereof would be in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter coming to their attention by complaint or arising from their own personal knowledge, and if a violation is found to exist, they shall serve notice upon the owner, notifying the Mayor and Council, and prosecute a complaint to terminate the violation before the Municipal Judge.
2. 
It shall be the further duty of the Zoning Officer to keep a record of all applications for building permits and of all certificates of occupancy thereof issued, with a notation of all special conditions involved. The Zoning Officer shall file and safely keep copies of all plans and specifications submitted with such applications, and the same shall form a part of the records of their office and shall be available to the Mayor and Council and all other officials of the Borough.
3. 
It shall also be the duty of the members of the Fire and Police Departments to report any violations of the provisions of this chapter to the Code Enforcement Official and at the same time send a copy of such report to the Borough Administrator who shall present such report to the Mayor and Council.
d. 
Proceedings to prevent unlawful acts. In case any building or structure is erected, constructed, altered, repaired, converted or maintained, or any building, structure or land is used in violation of the Act or of any ordinance or other regulation made under authority conferred thereby, the proper local authorities of the municipality or an interested party, in addition to other remedies, may institute any appropriate action or proceedings to prevent such unlawful erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, conversion, maintenance or use; to restrain, correct or abate such violation; to prevent the occupancy of the building, structure or land; or to prevent any illegal act, conduct, business or use in or about such premises.
[Ord. No. 77:1; amended 8-23-2021 by Ord. No. 2021:14]
Any power expressly authorized by this chapter to be exercised by the Planning Board or the Board of Adjustment shall not be exercised by any other body, except as otherwise provided in this chapter.
[Ord. No. 77:1; amended 8-23-2021 by Ord. No. 2021:14]
In the event that, during the period of approval heretofore or hereafter granted to an application for development, the developer is barred or prevented, directly or indirectly, from proceeding with the development otherwise permitted under such approval by a legal action instituted by any state agency, political subdivision or other party to protect the public health and welfare or by a directive or order issued by any state agency, political subdivision or Court of competent jurisdiction to protect the public health or welfare and the developer is otherwise ready, willing and able to proceed with the development, the running of the period of approval under Chapter 291 of the Laws of New Jersey 1975 or under any law repealed by the chapter, as the case may be, shall be suspended for the period of time the legal action is pending or such directive or order is in effect.
[Ord. No. 77:1; amended 8-23-2021 by Ord. No. 2021:14]
a. 
Pending legal actions or directives. In the event that a developer submits an application for development proposing a development that is barred or prevented, directly or indirectly, by a legal action instituted by any state agency, political subdivision or other party to protect the public health and welfare or by a directive or order issued by any state agency, political subdivision or court of competent jurisdiction to protect the public health and welfare, the municipal agency shall process such application for development in accordance with this chapter and municipal development regulations, and, if such application for development complies with municipal development regulations, the municipal agency shall approve such application conditioned on removal of such legal barrier to development.
b. 
Pending approval of other governmental agency. In the event that development proposed by an application for development requires an approval by a governmental agency other than the municipal agency, the municipal agency shall, in appropriate instances, condition its approval upon the subsequent approval of such governmental agency, provided that the municipality shall make a decision on any application for development within the time period provided in Chapter 291 of the Laws of New Jersey 1975 or within an extension of such period as has been agreed to by the applicant, unless the municipal agency is prevented or relieved from so acting by the operation of law.
[Ord. No. 2000:13; amended 8-23-2021 by Ord. No. 2021:14]
a. 
A variance granted by the New Milford Zoning Board of Adjustment and/or the New Milford Planning Board shall be born on the date that it is memorialized and adopted by resolution of the granting board; and
b. 
A variance will expire on the two-year anniversary of said date; and
c. 
The expiration of any such variance shall be tolled by the commencement of construction as defined by New Jersey case law; and
d. 
The expiration of any such variance may be extended by the granting board, in its discretion, for an additional period not to exceed two years from the date of extension, provided an extension is granted prior to the expiration of any such variance.