Planning & Zoning

Whether you are erecting a small shed or a shopping complex, this is where it all begins. This office is responsible for processing zoning permits, setting agendas for Planning and Zoning Board meetings, and for enforcing the Zoning Codes of Washington Township. 

On residential properties, improvements such as fences, pools, or decks require a zoning permit and may also need a construction permit. If you change the use or occupancy of a building, a permit is also required. All signs and banners require zoning permits and may have to be approved by either the Planning or Zoning Board.

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  • Zoning Permit Application - Residential
  • Zoning Permit Application - Commercial
  • Zoning Permit Application - Home Office Occupation
  • Zoning Verification Request - Standard
  • Pods/Trailer Permit Application
  • Clothing Bin Application
  • Tree Planting and Removal Permit Application
  • Vacant and Abandoned Real Property Application as per Ordinance O010-2022
  • Zoning Board Application
  • Planning Board Application
  • DRC Application
  • Environmental Impact Worksheet
  • Checklist

Vacant and Abandoned Properties

As required pursuant to Township Ordinance O010-2022, within 10 days of the filing of the action of foreclosure on a commercial and/or residential mortgage for a property located in Washington Township, the creditor shall notify the Washington Township Clerk or his/her designee, of the action,  via regular mail at 523 Egg Harbor Road, Sewell NJ 08080.

Creditors of any commercial and/or residential mortgage are required to register the property with the townships property registration program as a property in foreclosure within 30 days of notifying the township accompanied by the appropriate registration fee of $500.00. If the property is vacant and abandoned at the time of the filing, or becomes vacant any time thereafter, the creditor shall pay an additional $2,000.00 fee.

Registration fees are due annually until such time that the foreclosure is discharged and/or the property is re-occupied. On each anniversary date of the initial registration, the creditor shall submit a renewal registration form and fee.

Office Assistant

Gina Allegra

ext. 2233

Office Assistant

Victoria Orr

ext. 2228

Supervisor-Division of Community Development

Jeanette Naylor

ext. 2245


Memorial Day - Labor Day
Closed Fridays

Business Registration is required for any person, firm or corporation to maintain an office or place of business, to conduct, engage in or carry on any business, trade or occupation within the Township of Washington. 

2024-2025 Business Registration

  • Valid from August 1, 2024 to December 31, 2025.
  • Business Registration fee is $60 if received prior to August 1, 2024.
  • Any applications submitted on or after August 1, 2024 will require a $100 late fee.

2026 Business Registration

  • Please be aware of important changes to business registration renewals, effective January 1, 2026.
  • All Business Registrations will now operate on a calendar year basis, valid from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026.
  • The annual Business Registration fee is $60 if your complete application is received prior to January 1, 2026.

Any incomplete applications will be returned for insufficient document requirements and subject to late fees as listed below.  

Applications received on or after January 1, 2026, will be subject to the following late fees:

  • A $50 late fee will be applied to complete applications received prior to March 1, 2026.
  • A $100 late fee will be applied to complete applications received on or after March 1, 2026.

Effective 8/5/2022 - Certificate of Insurance – New Jersey law P.L. 2022, c. 92, which institutes a new minimum insurance requirement for owners of businesses and rental units. Certificate of Insurance must be included with business registration application. Any incomplete application will be returned. 

Business Registration

Business Registration Application

Permits for Cottage Food Operators - Home Bakers

The State of New Jersey has set forth new rules creating a cottage food operator (home baker) permit effective October 4, 2021.

New Jersey historically prohibited the sale of home baked goods but has now joined other states in allowing cottage food operations. 

The Department has been working on this issue for some time and carefully balanced allowing home bakers to operate small businesses while instituting appropriate safeguards.  While developing these new regulations, the Department received input from many stakeholders, including local health departments, home bakers, the retail food industry, and others.

There are specific rules and regulations that must be adhered to. Please visit the State’s website for more information on regulations, certification and permit instructions.

https://www.nj.gov/health/ceohs/phfpp/retailfood/cottagefood.shtml