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1. Where are bids advertised?

Township of Mahwah request for bids are advertised in the Bergen Record under legal notices.

2. How do I discard a worn American flag?

You may bring your worn American Flag to Gary Montroy who is the Commander with the Mahwah VFW Post. Gary will arrange for proper disposal at a ceremony which takes place at the Police and Fire Academy. Call 201-848-1841, or email Gary.

3. I am looking to open a business in Mahwah. What steps must I complete to do so?

When interested in opening a business in Mahwah, you must first complete the Tenant Application Checklist (PDF).

4. How do I contact the Mahwah Police Department?

We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and are located at:
221 Franklin Turnpike
Mahwah, NJ 07430

Our main telephone number is 201-529-1000. Our Investigative Bureau is 201-529-1000, ext. 216, and our primary fax number is 201-529-0240. In an emergency, dial 911.

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1. Can a homeowner take out his own permit?

Yes, but it is it important that the homeowner understand the ramifications of doing that.  Please consult this link for more information.

2. Can a homeowner prepare his or her own plans?

Plans can be prepared by a homeowner in the case of a detached single family home if intended to be used exclusively as his or her private residence. Owner must endorse the plans and show adequate details of competence and compliance in the opinion of the Official. If not used as a private primary residence plans must be prepared by a New Jersey licensed design professional.

3. Is a New Jersey Home Improvement Contractor Certification required to work on residential or non commercial properties?

Home improvement contractors are individuals and companies involved in repairing, renovating, modernizing, installing, replacing, improving, restoring, painting, constructing, remodeling, moving, or demolishing residential or noncommercial properties.

Home improvement contractors include those who work on residential driveways, sidewalks, swimming pools, terraces, patios, additions, landscaping, fences, porches, windows, doors, cabinets, kitchens, bathrooms, garages, finished basements, basement waterproofing, insulation installation, roofing and siding, wall-to-wall carpeting or attached or inlaid floor coverings, and more.

Click here for useful links https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/hic/Pages/links.aspx

4. Can an owner do work in their own homes?

A home improvement contractor registration is not required for any person performing a home improvement on a residential structure owned by that person or any member of that person’s immediate family.

5. Can a master HVACR contractor install an electrical disconnect?

No. A licenced master HVAC contractor may not replace a disconnect box or disconnect switch.

N.J.A.C. 13:32A 10  Applicable to replacement cases only, the connection of the wiring from an equiptment service disconnect box of adequate size to accomodate pneumatic and or direct digital controls and control piping of automatic oil, gas, coal burning, or any other product of combustion equipment, mechanical refrigeration equipment, gasoline, or diesel oil dispensing equipment previously dedicated to that equipment as long as:   

• Heating or cooling capacity of each piece of equipment is 25 ton or less
• Voltage of the system is 240 or less
• the connection of the wiring is performed according to all relevant provisions of the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code

Any other work must be performed by a licensed electrical contractor

6. What is required for an electric vehicle charging station at my home?

https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/codes/publications/pdf_other/homeowners_guide_electric_vehicles_charging_stations.pdf  

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1. How do I report a problem with a streetlight?

Please report issues with streetlights through the Orange & Rockland website.

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1. Am I allowed to park my car in the street overnight?

The Mahwah Police Department reminds residents that Township Ordinance 7-3.3 prohibits the parking of vehicles along any roadway between the hours of midnight and 6 am, November 15 through April 15.

Please make arrangements to park your vehicle off the roadway. Warnings may be issued first.

2. As an electrically operated medical device user, how can I prepare for power outages?

If someone in your household uses any of the following listed equipment, please let Orange and Rockland know by calling toll-free at 877-434-4100, between 8 am and 7 pm on weekdays, except holidays.

• Apnea monitor for infants
• Infusion feeding pump
• Kidney dialysis machine
• Oxygen concentrator
• Peritoneal dialysis machine
• Pressure breathing therapy
• Respirator
• Ventilator

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1. How can I become a junior fireman in Mahwah?

Mahwah has both Explorer and Junior Fireman programs. The Explorer program begins at age 14 and the Junior Fireman program begins at age 16. Most Explorers continue into the Junior program and once they reach the age of 18 they are eligible to apply to become a full time firefighter. Applications for both programs are available at any Mahwah firehouse Wednesday evenings between the hours of 7:30 and 9 pm.

2. I'm interested in becoming a fireman in Mahwah. What are the steps necessary to do so?

In order to become a fireman in Mahwah, you must:

• Be 18 years of age
• Be a Mahwah resident for 6 months or longer
• Submit an application (including a physical exam)
• After the application is approved, attend the Fire Academy

Applications can be picked up at any Mahwah firehouse on Wednesday nights between 7:30 and 9:30 pm.

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1. Whom do I call for Animal Control?

The Township of Mahwah contracts with Tyco Animal Control for animal control services.

• Residents are asked to call the Police Department 201-529-1000 for:
  • Sick, injured or dangerous animals
  • Stray animals
• Call Tyco Animal Control Services 201-652-4554 for:
  • Dead animals on public property
  • Removal of nuisance wildlife
  • Report a lost pet
  • Violations of:
    • Leash law
    • Licensing
    • Pooper scooper

Tyco will also respond to requests for assistance on private property however, charges for these services apply and are billed directly to the property owner.

2. What should I do if I see injured wildlife?

You can actually increase young wildlife's chances of survival by following one simple rule when finding them: Leave them alone! It may be difficult to do, but this is the real act of kindness. In nearly all cases, young wildlife does not need to be "saved". Resist the temptation to help them. Only when they are found injured or with their dead mother is there a reason to intervene, and the state's wildlife laws are very specific about what you may do.

The Law

State law protects nearly all wild birds and mammals. Wildlife may not be legally taken from the wild or kept in captivity. Never consider wildlife as possible pets; it is both illegal and unwise. Wild animals belong in the wild.

In some instances the Division of Fish and Wildlife may grant permission for the rehabilitation of a distressed or injured wild animal provided that:

1. The Division of Fish and Wildlife law enforcement office in your area, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Emergency Hotline, or the Wildlife Control Unit is notified of the situation within 12 hours. Call 908-735-8793.
2. The Division's Wildlife Control Unit prescribes a course of action that is in the best interest of the animal. Normally the problem will be referred to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator who has the required experience, permits and facilities to properly care for injured and distressed wildlife.

You can view the list of state-licensed wildlife rehabilitators on the web. Please know that for safety reasons not all injured wildlife (i.e. potentially dangerous species) can be rehabilitated. These animals are also listed on the website.

For additional information contact the DEP's Division of Fish and Wildlife, Wildlife Control Unit, Clinton Wildlife Management Area at:
141 Van Syckels Road
Hampton, NJ 08827
Phone: 908-735-8793

3. Where do I apply for a marriage or civil union license?

Application for your license can be made in the hometown of either applicant and the license that is issued may be used anywhere in the state of New Jersey. If you are both New Jersey residents and are planning an out-of-state ceremony, contact the Registrar in the town where the ceremony will take place. View our guide (PDF) for more information.

Mahwah takes marriage license applications by appointment only. Please plan on coming in at least two weeks (and up to 6 months) before your ceremony. Call us at 201-529-5757, ext. 2 to make an appointment.

4. Where do I obtain a certified copy of my marriage certificate?

Contact the Registrar in the town where your wedding ceremony took place (regardless of where you applied for the license.)

You will need to complete an application form and supply ID. Effective January 1, 2013, Mahwah charges $15 per copy, but this fee varies from town to town. Mahwah's application is available on our website.

New Jersey law limits who may obtain certified copies of Vital Records. If you are legally entitled to receive a record that belongs to someone else (i.e. your child, your parent, your sibling), you will be required to provide proof of your relationship to that person.

5. Are food handlers required to wear gloves?

Effective January 2, 2007, there can be no bare-hand contact with any ready to eat food (i.e. cold cuts, pizza, bakery items, etc.) A food handler may use deli tissue, a utensil or gloves to serve these items and comply with the law.

6. Can I get a copy of my septic "as-built"?

We have many (but not all) original septic plans and "as-builts", dating back to the early 1950s and 1960s. Stop in the Clerk's Office to complete an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request form if you need a copy of your Septic As-Built. Nominal photo-copy fees apply.

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1. What Township ordinance established the Historic Preservation Commission?

• Ordinance 627 (PDF) was adopted on March 23, 1978 and established the Historic Sites Committee to protect, enhance and preserve districts, sites, buildings and structures of historic, cultural or architectural value or interest within the Township of Mahwah.
• Ordinance 1062 (PDF) established the Historic Preservation Commission to safeguard its historic, architectural, archeological and cultural heritage by protecting, preserving and conserving theses historic:
  • Cemeteries
  • Districts
  • Objects
  • Roads
  • Sites
  • Structures
• Ordinance 1313 (PDF) amended Ordinance Number 1062 to work with and advise the Planning Board and the Board of Adjustment on the effect of development applications on designated historic sites and in addition to review all permit applications involving the historic sites.
• Ordinance 1393 (PDF) added the Valentine House to the list of protected properties.
• Ordinance 1564 (PDF) added the Waterman House to the list of protected properties.
• Ordinance 1642 (PDF) added the Ellis House to the list of protected properties.
• Ordinance 1747 (PDF) added the Erie Caboose and the Wannamaker Shed located on 142 N Railroad Avenue to list of protected structures.

2. How do I know if my home or other structure is "historic" and qualifies to be placed on the Township ordinance as an "historic landmark"?

Ordinance 1313 Section 24-18.3 Historic Designation Criteria for qualifying as historic. Generally, these include whether the landmark has historical, cultural, social or architectural significance. Homes from the colonial era would likely qualify as an historic landmark because of its significance in Mahwah's early history. However, a home might qualify as an historic landmark even if it is not especially "old" because it might qualify if it is associated with a person significant to the Township's history (e.g, Joyce Kilmer's home), or because it is of a unique architectural style (e.g, American Craftsman style). The Historic Preservation Commission can assist you in determining whether your home or structure might be eligible for inclusion in the Township Ordinance as a protected historic site.

3. If I want to protect my historic house, what do I need to do?

First contact the Mahwah Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) by calling 201-529-5757, ext. 271 (HPC secretary, Jennifer Storms) to advise them of your intentions or you may attend an Historic Preservation Commission meeting. HPC Public meetings are held on the 1st Monday of each month (except September, which is the 2nd Monday), at 7:30 pm in the Township Municipal Building:
475 Corporate Drive
Third Floor, Room 319
Mahwah, NJ 07430

Letter to the Mayor

Write a letter to the Mayor and Council, and copy the HPC, requesting that your home be added to the list of historic protected properties on the historic preservation element of the Township Code. In your letter, describe the reasons for requesting this inclusion. You may not have been able to establish all the criteria shown, but please provide enough identification factors, with verification citing sources of your information.

Added to the Agenda

The Township will request the request be added to a Township Council agenda, but it may be a month before it is scheduled. When the request is placed on the Township Council meeting agenda, you will be notified, and it will be discussed and open to the public for comments. A motion will be introduced to amend Chapter 24 of the Township Code Entitled "Historic Sites" to designate the property as an Historic Site in the Township of Mahwah. Township Council will add it to its next public meeting, where it will be voted on and adopted.

After Approval

The Amendment to the Township Ordinance is then signed by the Mayor and published. The effective date is 20 days after publication. At that point, the house or site will be protected as per the stipulations in Township of Mahwah Ordinance Number 1313.

4. How do I research the history of my house?

The New Jersey Historic Preservation Office has a brief guide on How to Research the History of a House (PDF).

The following are questions to keep in mind when researching the history of your property/structure:

• What is the name of the structure?
• What is the location and address of the property?
• What is the date it was built?
• Who were the architect, designer and supplier of material for the structure?
• What alterations and additions (with dates, name of architect, builder, etc.) have been made to the house?
• What is the name of the original owner and of all subsequent owners?
• What additions to, or sale of, the property were made by the owners?
• What historical events and/or persons are associated with the structure?

Sources

The following list of primary (archival and original) and secondary sources of documentation will assist in your property history search:

• Architectural/Construction Drawings
• Building permits, block and lot numbers
• Census Records (Federal and New Jersey)
• Deeds (names of owners, dates of ownership)
• Estate Records/Wills
• Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS)
• Historic Resource Surveys and 
  • Bergen County Historic Sites Survey
  • Bergen County Stonehouse Survey
  • Mahwah Township Cragmere Survey
• Interview former owners and older neighbors
• Local, municipal, and/or county histories
• Maps and Aerial Photographs
• Newspapers and books
• Plot Boods (volumes of large-scale maps showing plots and buildings on each block)
• Registers of Historic Places
  • National Register of Historic Places
  • New Jersey Register of Historic Places
• Real Estate listings
• Tax Appraisal Records (Municipal)

5. What documentation do I need to prove that my house is historic?

On order to determine if a property/structure can be considered for local historic designation, the property/structure must meet the Historic Designation Criteria under the Township of Mahwah Municipal Code Section 24.18.3 Ordinance 1313 (PDF).

6. What resources are available?

• Bergen County Division of Cultural and Historic Affairs
• Bergen County Historical Society
• Bergen County Justice Center
• Mahwah Library
• Mahwah Museum Society
• New Jersey State Historic Preservation Office
• New Jersey State Archives
• Rutgers University Library
• Township of Mahwah Building Department (Department of Inspections)

7. If I list my property/structure on the Historic Element of the Municipal Code as an historic site, does that mean that I cannot change anything in/on it?

If a property/structure is added to the Historic Element of the Municipal Code as an historic site it does not necessarily mean that anything on the outside or inside of the property/structure cannot be changed. What it does mean is that the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) will over see changes under certain conditions. If the house is under 10,000 square feet, the Commission has no jurisdiction on interior changes. However, the Commission is happy to advise the owner in regards to any work to be done, to keep the historic integrity of the structure.

Emergency & Ordinary Repairs

The following Emergency and ordinary repairs (including painting) which do not change the architectural integrity of the structure, and which use in kind materials, do not require Commission review:

• Doors
• Outside structures
• Roofs
• Siding
• Windows

Outside of the Home Repairs

Any work to change the outside of the structure will be subject to review by the HPC. The Commission will review the proposed changes and provide a written report as to the historical preservation provisions. The Commission can recommend approval, approval with conditions, or recommend that the proposed changes be denied. The Commission recommends that homeowners come to a Commission meeting prior to any application to speak to the members about any changes they would like to make.

 

8. Why should I place my home on the Historic Element of the Township Code?

It is an acknowledgement from the Township that your property/structure is valued by the Township. It helps tell the story of our community, as it represents an architectural style, historic time period or event. There is a good feeling to restoring and preserving the property for future generations. If you purchased an historic home, you understand the uniqueness of your home and the importance of carrying this piece of the past forward into our future.

Purpose of the Committee

Just 50 years ago, Mahwah was largely a rural farming community. Today, it is a busy, growing suburb with only vestiges of its rural past existing in small pockets around the Township. Placement of your home on the Historic Element of the Township Code ensures its historic character will be preserved for future generations. Years from now, it is likely that only those homes that were placed on the ordinance will remain much the same as they are today.

9. Is there any tax incentive or financial benefit to listing my house on the ordinance?

There are not currently many direct financial benefits for the owner of a private historic residence. Although its inclusion on the Ordinance could make it eligible for grants. There is currently little assistance available presently for private residences, future legislation may broaden eligibility for economic grants.

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1. Do I need a lawyer?

We are not permitted to give legal advice. You may come to court and speak with the judge regarding your rights and what the consequences may be if you plead guilty and pay the ticket.

2. How can the Court staff assist me?

• The Court Staff can:
  • Explain and answer questions regarding how the court works.
  • Explain what the steps are to have your case considered by the court.
  • Provide you with some information from your case file.
  • Provide guidance on how to fill out forms.
  • Answer questions about court deadlines.
• The Court Staff cannot:
  • Give legal advice. Only a lawyer or public defender can give legal advice.
  • Advise whether or not you should bring your case to court.
  • Give you an opinion about what will happen if you bring your case to court.
  • Recommend a lawyer, but we can provide you with the telephone number of a local lawyer referral service.
  • Talk to the judge for you about what will happen in your case.
  • Let you talk to the judge outside the court.
  • Change an order issued by a judge.

3. What are my options with regard to a ticket I received?

If it is a payable ticket, you may:

• Send a check or money order to the Court
• Pay by credit card at the Violations Bureau window Monday through Friday during 8 am to 4 pm
• Pay it online

If you wish to plead not guilty, we will verify your address and schedule you for a court session. If it is a Mandatory Violation, you are already scheduled for court.

4. When is my court date?

if the ticket is payable, the court date that appears on the ticket is the date to pay it by or to contact the court to enter a not guilty plea.

5. Why do I have to post bail?

According to Supreme Court rules, after you fail to appear for your court date, you will receive a Failure to Appear notice with a new court date. If you fail to appear on the next court date, a warrant will be issued for your arrest.

Once you have posted bail, you will receive a new court date. Bail is to ensure you appear at your next scheduled court date. Failure to do so will result in a bail forfeiture and a new warrant will be reissued. Once your matter is disposed of in court, you may use your bail money toward your fines. If you are found not guilty or the matter is dismissed, you may have your bail refunded to you or to the surety, the person who posted the bail in your case.

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1. What types of business can I operate on my property?

The Schedule of District Use Regulations defines the principal, accessory and conditional uses which are permitted in a specific zone.  

2. Where can I find the Township Master Plan?

Master Plan Documents can be accessed through this link and the link on the Planning and Zoning website page.

3. Can I subdivide my property?

The Schedule of Area, Bulk and Yard Requirements provides the information regarding minimum lot areas, coverage and yard setback requirements.

4. As a property owner with public sidewalks, what are my responsibilities for removing snow?

Sidewalks should be cleared of snow, slush, ice within 12 hours of the snow stopping. Sidewalks at intersections should have a straight through path to the roadway and entry to the next sidewalk.

5. I am planning to have a garage sale. Do I need a permit? Where can I post signs?

No permit is required when having a garage sale. Signs may only be posted at the property that is conducting the sales. No signs are permitted on trees, rocks, fences, or at any intersection pointing to the sales or address.

6. I am planning to put in a new driveway. Are there permits I need to obtain?

Yes. When putting in a new driveway you must obtain a Soil Removal Permit and a Zoning Permit.

7. Is there a limit to how many trees I can cut down on my property? Is a permit necessary?

The number of trees allowed to be cut down each year is 5 per lot, unless otherwise granted by the Board of Adjustment, Planning Board or Environmental Commission. The 5 trees should be 12 inches or greater at ground level. Trees that are dead, dying, diseased or less than 12 inches are not included in the 5 tree cap. There is no permit required for trimming of trees or shrubs.

8. Is there an ordinance requiring all residents to maintain their lawns? If so, what is required?

All premises and exterior property shall be maintained free from weeds or plant growth in excess of 10 inches. All noxious weeds shall be prohibited. Weeds shall be defined as all grasses, annual plants and vegetation, other than trees or shrubs provided; however, this term shall not include cultivated flowers and gardens.

9. Where can I find which Zone is a property in?

Click on the link to access the Zoning Map, https://www.mahwahtwp.org/DocumentCenter/View/127/Zoning-Map-PDF

When referencing the Zoning Map you will notice color coded districts within the Township starting with a letter followed by numbers, example - yellow R40. This Zone is Residential with a minimum lot area of 40,000 Sq. Ft.

10. How can I find the Zoning Schedule for Yard Requirements for a property?

Please click on the link - https://www.mahwahtwp.org/DocumentCenter/View/124/Schedule-of-Area-Bulk-and-Yard-Requirements-PDF

Here you will find the Zoning Schedule of Area, Bulk and Yard Requirements which includes Minimum Area Requirements (lot area, width, depth), Maximum Bulk Requirements (lot coverages and building height), Minimum Yard Requirements (setbacks from property lines).

11. How can I find the District Use Regulation for each Zone?

To access this information click on the following link:  https://www.mahwahtwp.org/DocumentCenter/View/125/Schedule-of-District-Use-Regulations-PDF

Here you will find a list of each District Zone within the Township with permitted principal, permitted accessory and conditional uses.

12. Where can I find information about fences?

To find regulations for fencing click on the following link: https://ecode360.com/37342282?highlight=fence,fences,front,front%20yard,fronting,yard,yards&searchId=41453540756661960#37342282

All new and replacement of existing fences need a Zoning Application to be submitted. If there is an existing fence needing minor repairs a permit is not needed. All corner lots have two front yards, a front yard is any part of the property that abuts a street. A maximum height of 4 feet is permitted in all front yards, if the desired height exceeds 4 feet then a variance would be needed by submitting a  Board of Adjustment Application. A maximum height of 6 feet is permitted in side and rear yards.

13. What is the difference between an Accessory Structure and Shed?

You may find information on Accessory Structures by clicking on the following link: https://ecode360.com/37342298#37342298

Accessory Structures are not attached to the primary residence and larger than 10' x 12' (120 sq. ft.), some examples include pergolas, pavilions, detached garages.

A detached structure up to 10' x 12' (120 sq. ft.) is considered a shed.

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1. Am I allowed to park my car in the street overnight

The Mahwah Police Department reminds residents that Township Ordinance 7-3.3 prohibits the parking of vehicles along any roadway between the hours of midnight and 6 am, November 15 through April 15.

Please make arrangements to park your vehicle off the roadway. Warnings may be issued first. In the event that the Township is plowing snow off the roadways, summonses will be issued.

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1. Are there fees for classes/trips?

Generally there are no fees for class participation. However, some workshops may require a fee to cover instruction and material. There will be a charge for trips.

2. Can I obtain a newspaper discount for The Record?

The Records provides a discount to senior citizens on newspaper subscriptions. Please call 888-473-2673, or visit their website.

3. Does Mahwah provide transportation for senior citizens or for those with disabilities?

Yes, Mahwah Access Transportation provides bus service for senior citizens, people with disabilities and other residents of the Township of Mahwah who are unable to drive. Transportation to doctor's offices and/or physical therapy (within our service area), and Valley Hospital is available on a daily basis with a three day advance reservation notice.

Monday, Wednesday and Friday many seniors are transported to the North West Bergen Senior Activity Center in Midland Park. They arrive at approximately 10 am, and are picked up for the return trip home at 2 pm Tuesday passengers are transported to the Interstate or Ramsey Square Shopping Centers for approximately three hours. Thursday transportation is provided to the Mahwah Senior Citizen Center for a luncheon or Mahwah Senior Club meetings.

Donation Fee

A $1 donation for a round trip us suggested. To sign up for Mahwah's Access Transportation or to find out more information regarding the monthly calendar of services available, please call 201-529-2691.

4. How can I obtain a Senior Citizen discount for E-Z Pass?

The New Jersey Turnpike Authority has a Senior Citizen Discount Program for E-Z Pass.  You must hold a valid driver's license in any state to qualify.  Please call them at 732-442-8600, ext. 2100 with any questions. To open an account, call 888-288-6865 and press "7" or apply on line at the E-Z Pass website.

5. Is there a fee to join the Mahwah Senior Center?

There is no membership fee to join.

6. What would constitute an inappropriate participant?

Since this is an activity center, we are unable to accommodate anyone suffering dementia or confusion. We do not have on-site medical personnel. This is not an adult day-care center.

7. Where can I obtain information on senior assistance for New Jersey Transit?

New Jersey Transit offers a Reduced Fare Program for Seniors. Call New Jersey Transit at 973-378-6401 or 973-378-6327 with any questions about the program.

8. Who is eligible?

Any Mahwah resident 62 years or older, who functions independently or who has a companion accompanying them.

9. Why can't I just come and go as I please?

After registering for a class you are free to participate. We encourage independence, for scheduled activities. On the contrary, we are a structured program with policies and procedures to adhere to.

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1. How and where do I license my dog or cat?

Requirements

In accordance with the Township Code, dogs and cats over seven months of age are required to be licensed.

A Rabies Vaccination Certificate, valid through and including November 1, of each year is required. If applicable, written proof of spaying or neutering from a licensed Veterinarian is required. If the dog or cat has previously been licensed and the Municipal Clerk's Office records reflect same, proof of spraying/neutering and rabies vaccination are not required.

Fees for Dog & Cat Licenses

• $7 per spayed or neutered dog and/or cat.
• $10 per unspayed or unneutered dog and/or cat.
• $2 replacement fee for lost tag.

After February 15, of each year, the $10 late fee per animal is imposed which is in addition to the licensing fee.

Renewals

Licenses may be renewed in person between the hours of 8:30 am and 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday, except Municipal holidays in the Municipal Clerk's Office, or by mailing the Rabies Vaccination Certificate, Proof of Spaying/Neutering Certificate and a self-addressed stamped envelope to:
Township of Mahwah
Attention: Municipal Clerk's Office
475 Corporate Drive
Mahwah, NJ 07430

Please do not send cash. If licensing cats and dogs, separate checks are necessary.

2. How do I obtain a parking permit to park in the municipal parking lots?

Parking Permits are only issued to Mahwah residents. A Driver's License and Vehicle Registration in your Mahwah address must be shown for proof of residency. Parking Permits are valid for as long as you own your vehicle. Parking is on a first come, first served basis. Parking Permits may be obtained in the Municipal Clerk's Office between 8 am to 4 pm weekdays, except for Municipal Holidays.

The Municipal Parking Lots are located on East Ramapo Avenue. One is located by the Red Caboose / Train Station and the other is directly across the street along side Winter's Pond.

3. How do I request a copy of a municipal record?

Forms to request copies of municipal records are available in the Municipal Clerk's Office or on the Townships' website.

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1. Are there recycling programs available to Bergen County residents for items such as tires, computers, or electronics?

The Bergen Country Utilities Authority (BCUA) holds collections for these items at various times throughout the year. For collection dates and sites, see the Bergen Country Utilities Authority website, or call the BCUA Environmental Programs Hotline at 201-807-5825.

2. Can I place old appliances at the curb for pick up with my trash?

Metal appliances and metal items (other than appliances containing Freon) can be disposed of in two ways. Items such as washing machines, dryers, stoves, humidifiers, bed frames, water heaters etc. can be placed at the curb for regular trash collection (the first pick up of the week during the summer) or brought to the Recycling Center to be disposed of in the dumpster for metal items.

Electronic appliances such as TVs, computers, printers, are no longer allowed in the trash. These items must be brought to the Recycling Center and placed in the electronic recycling container. Any item with a plug may be placed in the electronic recycling container. Often when receiving a delivery for a new appliance, TVs, etc, the vendor will remove the old appliance.

3. Can items at curbside be picked up by public?

15-6.4 Curbside Placements to Become Township Property:

a). From the time of placement of newspapers, glass, plastic, aluminum and other metal items by any person at the curb for collection by the Township or its authorized agent, pursuant to the rules and regulations herein contained or hereafter promulgated, such newspaper, glass, plastic, aluminum and other metal items shall become the sole property of the Township or its authorized agent.

4. How do I dispose of a refrigerator, freezer, or room air conditioner?

For disposal of any appliances containing a refrigerant (Freon) such as refrigerators, freezers or air conditioners, please call 973-227-7020 to arrange a date and time to have the appliance picked up at the curb by the Township contracted hauler.

5. How do I dispose of Hazardous Household Waste such as paint, pesticides, batteries, etc.?

Mahwah does not accept any paint, paint cans or paint brushes. Batteries can be recycled at Mahwah's Recycling Center. Resident are also encouraged to return batteries to the stores where they were purchased. Bergen County Utilities Authority hold collections for Household Hazardous Waste certain times throughout the year at three different locations; Parmaus, Mahwah and Moonachie. For dates and location sites go to the Bergen Country Utilities Authority (BCUA) website. Or call the BCUA Environmental Programs Hotline at 201-807-5825.

6. Where can I dispose of propane tanks?

Mahwah does not dispose of propane tanks. Residents are advised to dispose of them at the Bergen Country Hazardous Waste Collection sites.

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1. How and where do I register to vote?

Voter registration forms are available at the Township Clerk's office and online. Absentee Ballot Request Forms are also available at the Township Clerk's office. Deadline for requests must be received by the Bergen County Clerk's Office in Hackensack is seven days before election for which you are requesting the absentee ballot. You may apply in person up until 3 pm the day before the election, to the Bergen County Clerk at:
One Bergen County Plaza
Room 130
Hackensack, NJ 07601

2. How do I find out where I can vote?

You can find out where to vote within the Township by viewing the Voting Districts and Locations webpage.

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1. Who do I call for billing questions?

For Billing Inquiries call 201-529-5757, ext. 221 or 222.

2. What should I do if I have discolored water?

Run the cold water faucet only and contact the Mahwah Water Department Mon-Fri between 7am-3:30pm or the Mahwah Police Department off hours, weekends & holidays to contact the water department.

3. What should I do if I see water coming out of the road/ground?

Contact the Mahwah Water Department Mon-Fri between 7am-3:30pm or the Mahwah Police Department off hours, weekends & holidays to contact the water department

4. What are Mahwah Water Department hours of normal operation?

The Mahwah Water Department Hours of normal operation are Mon-Fri between 7am-3:30pm. However the Mahwah Water Department always has people on 24 hour call to handle emergencies. Off hours, weekends and holidays contact the Mahwah Police Department.

5. What should I do if I think my water/sewer bill is high?

Contact the Mahwah Water Department and we can go over your account with you and determine if we should send a technician out to do an inspection.

6. Does Mahwah have high lead levels in our drinking water?

The water provided by the Mahwah Water Department meets all NJDEP drinking water standards. All water sampling information is available on the NJDEP “WATER WATCH” website.

7. What should I do if I have sewage backing up into my home?

Contact the Mahwah Sewer Department to determine if the issue is the Mahwah Sewer Departments responsibility or the homeowners. Normal hours of operation Mon-Fri between 7am-3:30pm. Off hours, weekends, holidays contact the Mahwah Police Department.

8. What if the sewer clog is the homeowner’s responsibility?

Contact your plumber or drain cleaning company and notify the Mahwah Sewer Department when they will be arriving so we can coordinate jetting the Mahwah Sewer Departments side of the sewer line into the main.

9. Is the Mahwah Sewer Department responsible for the sewer line coming into my home?

NO, the Mahwah Sewer Department is responsible for the sewer mains in the street and to the street side of the cleanout on your property. The pipe from the cleanout into your home is the responsibility of the homeowner.

10. Is the Mahwah Water Department responsible for the water line coming into my home?

NO, the Mahwah Water Department is responsible for the water mains in the street and the service connection coming off the water mains to the curb stop (the valve that allows us to shut off the water to your home on the street). The pipe coming from the curb stop into your home is the home owner’s responsibility.

11. What is the Mahwah Water Department responsible for in my home?

Inside your home, the Mahwah Water Department is responsible for the water meter itself and the two connections to the water meter. All valves and piping before and after is the responsibility of the home owner.

12. What should I do if I need the water shut off at the curb so I can make nonemergency repairs in my home?

Contact the Mahwah Water Department with 48 hour notice so we can come out and locate and check the curb stop for proper operation. ONLY THEN, should you schedule the plumber for the work.

13. What should I do if I need the water shut off at the curb for an emergency?

Contact the Mahwah Water Department immediately so we can respond to locate and shut off the curb stop at the street. Mon-Fri 7am-3:30pm or the Mahwah Police Department off hours, weekends, and holidays.

14. Is the Mahwah Sewer Department responsible for my sewer ejector pump?

NO, the Mahwah Sewer Department has no responsibility/liability for sewer ejector pumps, tanks, parts, control panels, alarms. Any issues should be addressed with the manufacturer.

15. What should I do if I see BLUE and GREEN flags on my yard?

Nothing, the flags are there to mark the water shut off (BLUE) and the sewer cleanout (GREEN). Either you or your neighbor are having work done on the property and by law all utilities must be flagged or marked.