Who prepares the required plans?
A NJ Licensed Architect is recommended for the preparation of plans for major projects. Major projects may need to include floor plans drawn to scale, sections, elevations and details. Structural elements such a girders and columns are required to be drawn by a NJ Licensed Architect. Minor projects such as decks and small additions can be drawn by a homeowner. The Construction Inspection Office has standard specifications that can be followed within certain limitations for routine projects such as decks and retaining walls. These specs along with a plot plan/survey depicting your project are accepted as the required plans. There are some projects which require a NJ Licensed Engineer to prepare plans. Examples are an in-ground pool, grading plans and retaining walls no more than four feet in height.
