Applications for Development

Applications for Development are made to either the Planning Board or the Zoning Board of Adjustment.  Applications for Development are made by applicants to seek site plan review, subdivision of a lot, variance relief or to direct the issuance of a permit.  

The Department of Planning & Community Development administers the Applications for Development and can assist applicants in preparing for submissions to either the Planning Board or the Zoning Board of Adjustment.  
Please contact the Department at 973-509-4954 with any questions regarding the filing of an Application for Development.

Please note that all Applications for Development must be accompanied by a completed W-9 form for establishment of escrow accounts for deposit of required escrow funds.  A link to the form is provided here.

Finally, it is recommended that all site plan applicants review the listing of Native Plants for Montclair as their use is strongly encouraged in landscape plans.


The following approvals require an Application for Development

Freestanding signs; and/or

Subdivision

Minor Subdivision
Any subdivision of a tract or parcel of land which involves the creation of no more than two lots fronting on a public street and does NOT include planned development, any new street or the extension of any off-tract improvement.

Major Subdivision

Any subdivision of a tract or parcel of land which involves the creation of more than two lots fronting on a public street, planned development, any new street or the extension of any off-tract improvement.

Minor Site Plan

A site plan of one or more lots, excluding one lot with a single one-family or two-family dwelling, for approval of:

  • Any change in use that triggers an increase in intensity of use as defined by the number of parking spaces required; and/or
  • Erection or replacement or relocation of a fence or retaining wall, excluding exact replacement of existing walls and fences; and/or
  • Outdoor installation or relocation of:
    • A refuse or solid waste storage and collection area and its screening; or
    • An emergency power generator or condensing unit; or
    • Freestanding signs; and/or
    • Redesign of the layout or internal traffic flow of an existing parking area; and/or
  • Site improvements to provide, increase or improve barrier free access for persons with disabilities, provided always that such site plan contains the information reasonably required in order to make an informed determination as to whether the requirements established by ordinance for approval of a minor site plan have been met and does not involve approval of:
    • A use or other variance;
    • A planned development;
    • Any new street or extension of any off-tract improvement which is to be prorated pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-42 or ordinance.

Major Site Plan

  • Construction of any building or addition to a building having a floor area of over 100 square feet; and/or
  • The conversion of any existing building to more dwelling units, other than detached one-family or two-family dwellings or buildings accessory to one-family or two-family dwellings; and/or
  • The construction or redesign of parking areas and driveways for more than two vehicles, except in connection with a detached one-family or two-family dwelling; and/or
  • The regrading, removal of vegetation or displacement of soil in an area of over 5,000 square feet.

Conditional Use Approval

To seek approval for a conditional use in a zone where such use is allowed, subject to conditions.

Variance

To seek relief from the strict enforcement of the zoning ordinance.

Direct the Issuance of a Permit

To seek an interpretation of the strict enforcement of the zoning ordinance.