Hi Shar,

More information is definitely needed as to what you'd like to accomplish. I live in tOakland and my property extends into the Ramapo River basin with a bit of wetlands on the fringes. The DEP is very rigid and protective of any wetlands, as they should be, and will not allow you to disturb any wetlands. What specifically are you looking to do?...re-landscape in areas involving wetlands, building structures or covering the ground with impervious coverage, extend a footprint on an existing structure, or just remodel within the footprint of an existing structure? The state, county, and local boroughs monitor this area very closely to insure compliance with the laws and regulations. The local building department of the borough the land falls within will be most helpful in assisting you with your questions and they also work closely with the DEP or DEC. Let me know if I can help you with your more specific questions or if you may be interested in knowing what value your approved work will contribute to your return of investment.. Good luck to you.

Sat May 3 2008, 13:34

Hello Shar ---
I live and work in the area and the best place to get the info you need is to visit the town in which you are interested in doing the work. Each town has both state and local codes to deal with. In addition, depending on the amount of work you need to do...you will have to consider the Highlands Act which protects all NJ waterways. Now, that said, your local realtor should be able to assist you in sourcing the particular information that you need. I would be able to help point you in the right direction if you give me a little more detail about the town/location of the property. I will send you the links or local information to help answer your questions more specifically.

Fri May 2 2008, 05:33