The application can be downloaded here. If you do not have printer capabilities to download the form from, you can email your address to the Board of Elections and request an application be sent to your home.

Depending on the project, if prior approvals (Zoning, Engineering, Health etc.) are not required, a minimum of twenty (20) business days should be planned for processing applications.  If such prior approval is required, your application review may take longer.  The twenty (20) business day period begins on the date the complete construction permit application arrives at the CONSTRUCTION DEPARTMENT.  Also if, during the review of your application, it is determined that additional information is required, this may result in a longer review time.

A Certificate Continued Occupancy inspection is not required in Franklin Township when selling a residential home; what is required is an inspection from the Fire Prevention Department

732-873-2500 extension 6303.  A CCBC (Certificate Of Continued Building Compliance) is required if you are selling commercial building or if a new tenant is acquiring the space.

If you are the owner of a single family and you reside in the home, in most cases, may perform your own work and draw your own plans. Please call the Construction Department and speak to the appropriate inspector who will steer you in the correct direction.

732-873-7283 Extension: 6224

Recent changes to what is considered normal maintenance pursuant to the Uniform Construction Code no longer mandate construction permits for the installation of siding for one and two family detached dwellings (except for polypropylene) and the replacement of roofs for one and two family detached dwellings. 

It is very important to note that all siding and roof replacements for all structures located in a Historic District still require Historic Commission review and approval before the work can commence.  Below is map  showing the various districts.   To determine if you property is within an Historic District or for further information please contact via email Vincent Dominach at  or 732-873-2500 (ext. 6274)

Historic District Map

Requirements vary by project.  Please contact the Construction Office at 732-873-7283 for specific information.

A construction permit is required for everything that is not considered an ordinary repair or maintenance. Permits are required for Finishing Basements, Decks, Raised Patios, Swimming Pools, Renovating Bathrooms & Kitchens, Water Heaters, Sheds, Gazebos, new Electrical wiring and new Plumbing installations. Click here to view additional guidelines. Please keep in mind that this list is not all inclusive and is meant to provide general information only. For more specific information please contact the Construction Office at 732-873-7283.

The Township Engineering Department administrates and enforces the program. All stormwater maintenance permittees shall, at a minimum, quarterly submit to the Township of Franklin a maintenance report and control measure check off list demonstrating compliance with the approved stormwater maintenance plan. The maintenance report shall verify that the operating condition of the stormwater control measures are in good working order and that the stormwater maintenance plan has been executed to ensure that stormwater quality treatment devices continue to perform adequately. The Township will conduct inspections of the stormwater quality treatment devices to confirm the information filed in the self certification report. It shall be unlawful to make any false statement or representation in a self certification report submitted to the Township Engineering Department. Self-certification documents can be found in the property’s stormwater management report or obtained from the Township Engineering Department’s website.

Please download, print out the documents in the two links below.   

COVID-19 - CSACMAPFEC Affidavit

CSACMAPFEC Placement Sheet 2-12-19

Please click on the hyperlink to see out interactive Fire District map.

Interactive Fire District Map

 Smoke and CO Placement Sheet 2-12-19

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

 

 

What is this ordinance intended to accomplish and why is the Township Council considering adoption of the ordinance?

The ordinance (consolidates the Township’s existing C-B (Corporate Business), M-1 (Light Manufacturing) and M-2 (Light Manufacturing) zoning districts into a new zoning district called the B-I (Business and Industry) zone and makes associated ordinance amendments.

 

The ordinance is intended to simplify the Township’s corporate business and industrial zones by providing one set of use and bulk (e.g., building and parking lot setbacks, building and impervious coverages, building height, etc.) standards rather than having three separate zones that largely permit a similar mix of permitted uses with varying bulk standards. This streamlining of the Township’s corporate business and industry zones is intended to encourage economic development by permitting corporate and industrial development in a consistent manner in the areas of the Township currently zoned for such uses.

 

The ordinance is also intended to encourage economic development by expanding the range of permitted uses in the business areas of the Township currently within the Corporate Business (C-B) zone located primarily along all or a portion of Davidson Avenue, Pierce Street, Atrium Drive, and Campus Drive. Specifically, in addition to the uses currently permitted in that area (e.g., professional office, laboratory, data processing and communications, hotel, conference center), certain uses currently permitted in the M-1 and M-2 zones (e.g., warehousing and light manufacturing) would also be permitted in this area.

 

A brief description of each substantive section of the ordinance is provided below:

 

• Section I: Provides definitions of key terms (e.g., uses permitted in the zone).

   

• Section II: Addresses the creation of the B-I zone and the elimination of the C-B, M-1 and M-2 zones.

   

• Sections III, IV and V: Identifies the properties being rezoned from the C-B, M-1 or M-2 zones to the new B-I zone.

 

 

 

 

¹ http://franklintownnj.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=1681&MediaPosition=&ID=8410&CssClass=

MAPS

 

Figure 1: “Route 287” Existing Zoning

 

Figure 2: “Somerset Area” Existing Zoning

 

Figure 3: “Route 287 Area” Zoning Changes

 

Figure 4: “Somerset Area” Zoning Changes

 

Figure 5: “Route 287” Proposed Zoning

 

Figure 6: “Somerset Area” Proposed Zoning

If you own property that is:

Located in the B-I zone and located within 500-feet of a residential zone:

• Figures 7 and 8 identify the B-I zoned properties located within 500-feet of a residential zone.
• Future development of a warehouse or expansion of an existing warehouse would not be permitted.
• While future warehouse development would be prohibited these properties would remain within the B-I zone and could be developed with one or more of the various other uses permitted in the B-I zone.

If the property is already developed with a warehouse:

• The use would become a legal, pre-existing non-conforming use. The existing warehouse use could remain in perpetuity at its existing size. However, any expansion of the warehouse use would be prohibited.
• If you still chose to seek expansion of the existing warehouse, you would have the right to apply to the Township Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) for a use variance. You would need to provide proofs/ justification per the requirements of the New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL) and applicable case law.

If the property is already approved for development of a warehouse:

• Your approval would remain in place provided you satisfied all conditions of your site plan approval (including but not limited to obtaining all required outside approvals) and applied for building permits within 2 years of the date your approval was memorialized by resolution of the Planning Board. Failure to do so will render your previous site plan approval invalid.
• If the above is satisfied (and the warehouse constructed), then the warehouse would be considered a legal, pre-existing non-conforming use (see above).

If the property is not developed with a warehouse then the proposed warehouse restriction would not affect the existing development of your site. Further, the warehouse restriction would not apply if you chose to redevelop or expand with another use permitted in the zone.

If you still chose to seek development of a warehouse, you would have the right to apply to the ZBA for a use variance. You would need to provide proofs/ justification per the requirements of the MLUL and applicable case law including demonstrating that the site was suitable for development with a warehouse despite the deviation from the ordinance which restricts such development.

All development in the B-I zone would be subject to other applicable zoning requirements including but not limited to building and parking lot setback requirements, lot and impervious surface coverages, building height, buffer requirements, and design standards for business and industry uses. This ordinance proposes a number of modifications to these requirements which would apply after the effective date of the ordinance.

Located in the B-I zone and NOT located within 500-feet of a residential zone: 

• Figures 7 and 8 identify the B-I zoned properties located within 500-feet of a residential zone (and conversely those properties NOT located within 500-feet of a residential zone).
• The proposed warehouse restriction would not apply to your property.
• All development in the B-I zone would be subject to other applicable zoning requirements including but not limited to building and parking lot setback requirements, lot and impervious surface coverages, building height, buffer requirements, and design standards for business and industry uses. This ordinance proposes a number of modifications to these requirements which would apply after the effective date of the ordinance.

Located within one of the areas proposed to be re-zoned:

• Figures 1 through 6 identify the areas and properties involved.
• After the effective date of the ordinance, the use and bulk requirements of the new zoning designation (i.e., A, RR-3 or R-40, as applicable) would apply. Uses permitted in the prior zoning (warehouses, light industrial uses, office buildings, laboratories, as permitted in ROL and/or B-I) would no longer be permitted.
• If the property is already developed with a warehouse, light industrial use or other non-residential use not permitted in the proposed zoning designation (i.e., A, RR-3 or R-40 zone, as applicable):

The use would become a legal, pre-existing non-conforming use. The existing use could remain in perpetuity at its existing size. However, any expansion of the existing use would be prohibited.

If you still chose to seek expansion of the existing use, you would have the right to apply to the ZBA for a D(2) variance for an expansion of a non-conforming use. You would need to provide proofs/ justification per the requirements of the New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL) and applicable case law.

If the property is already approved for development of a warehouse (or other previously-permitted non-residential use):

• Your approval would remain in place provided you satisfied all conditions of your site plan approval (including but not limited to obtaining all required outside approvals) and applied for building permits within 2 years of the date your approval was memorialized by resolution of the Planning Board. Failure to do so will render your previous site plan approval invalid.
• If the above is satisfied (and the warehouse constructed), then the warehouse (or other previously-permitted non-residential use) would be considered a legal, pre-existing non-conforming use (see above).

Not located in the B-I zone and not located within one of the areas proposed to re-zoned:

• This ordinance does not apply to your property and will not affect how you can develop or use your property.
• If you received a notice of the ordinance, it was because your property is located within 200 feet of a B-I zone or one of the areas proposed to be rezoned.

Figure 1: Mettlers Rd_Weston Rd 

Figure 2: Re-Zone from ROL to A zone

Figure 3: Re-Zone from ROL to RR-3 zone 

Figure 4: Elizabeth Avenue, South of New Brunswick Road/ School House Road

Figure 5: Re-Zone from B-1 to R-40

Figure 6: Re-Zone from B-1 to R-40

Figure 7: B-I zoned Properties within 500-feet of a Residential Zone (i.e., warehouses not permitted)

Figure 8: B-I zoned Properties within 500-feet of a Residential Zone (i.e., warehouses not permitted)

Ordinance 4371-22

The ordinance:

Makes warehouses a conditionally-permitted use in the B-I (Business and Industry) zone. The ordinance would prohibit warehouses on lands located within 500 feet of a residential zone. This requirement is consistent with a recommendation in the State Planning report in its “Municipal Mitigation Best Practices” and is consistent with the Goal and Objectives of the Township Master Plan cited above.

• Section VI – amends Schedule I, Permitted Uses, to make “warehouse and distribution uses” a conditional use in the Business and Industry (B-I) zone
• Section XII – provides the conditional use standards for “warehouse and distribution uses” in the B-I zone. In addition to the 500-foot separation requirement, warehouses would be specifically required to be served by public water and sewer.
• Figures 7 and 8 show the properties that would be affected. Sites shown in red are those in the B-I zone that are within 500 feet of a residential zone and thus warehouses would no longer be permitted, whereas the sites in green are not located within 500 of a residential zone and thus warehouses would continue to be permitted.

Rezones property along Mettlers Road (north of Weston Road) from the ROL (Research-Office-Laboratory) zone to the RR-3 (Rural Residential) zone. Access to this large undeveloped property, located at the northeast corner of Metters Road/ Weston Road, is limited to two roads (Weston Road and Mettlers Road) that are particularly unsuitable due to their width and geometry for large-scale traffic-inducing developments. Further, while located in the sewer service area, the property is not served by public sewer (closest sewer line is located a significant distance in School House Road). Lastly, sensitive land uses in the form of residential development and Franklin High School are located to the west and east of the site respectively. The property would be rezoned to the RR-3 consistent with the zoning of surrounding properties.

• Section III – rezones this property to the RR-3 zone.
• Sections I, IV, VI, VII, X, XIII – with the rezoning of this property the ordinance would no longer need to reference or contain standards for development in the ROL zone. Such requirements would be eliminated from the ordinance
• Figures 1 and 3, below, show the area and property involved.

Rezones certain properties along Mettlers Road (south of Weston Road) from the ROL (Research-Office-Laboratory) zone to the A (Agricultural) zone. While portions of these lands have been previously developed (a laboratory use and an office building recently converted to a school), there remains a sizeable area of undeveloped land at the southwest corner of Weston Road/ Mettlers Road. For the reasons stated above with respect the property at the northeast corner of Metters Road/ Weston Road, these properties are proposed to be rezoned consistent with the zoning of surrounding properties - in this case the A (Agricultural) zone.

• Section II – rezones these properties to the A zone.
• Figures 1 and 2, below, show the area and properties involved.

Rezones certain properties along the Elizabeth Avenue (south of New Brunswick Road) from the B-I (Business and Industry) zone to the R-40 (Residential) zone. While some of these properties have been previously developed or approved for warehouse or light industrial use, there remains a sizeable area of undeveloped land. This area is proposed to be rezoned to the R-40 zone: it is not served by public sewer; a large portion of the area is environmentally-sensitive including large areas of NJDEP-regulated wetlands; and is located in close proximity to sensitive lands uses including Franklin High School and residences. These properties would be rezoned to the R-40 zone consistent with the zoning of the Elizabeth Avenue corridor to the immediate south.

• Section IV – rezones these properties to the R-40 zone.
• Figures 4, 5 and 6, below, show the area and properties involved.

Makes associated amendments to the land development ordinance primarily intended to provide further protection from the impacts of development in the B-I zone including from warehouse development.

• Section VII – Clarifies the applicability of existing larger setback requirements where the B-I zone adjoins a residential zone
• Section VIII – Decreases the permitted maximum building height in the B-I zone
• Section IX – Expands the applicability of existing buffering requirements in the B-I zone
• Section XI – Amends the design standards of the B-I zone to require developers to address compliance with anti-idling laws and laws addressing “solar ready” warehouses
• Section XIII – Clarifies that no pavement (other than necessary to provide access to the site) may be located in the required 50-foot front yard setback.

 Figure 1: Mettlers Road/ Weston Road Area

Figure 2: Re-Zone from ROL to A zone

Figure 3: Re-Zone from ROL to RR-3 zone 

Figure 4: Elizabeth Avenue, South of New Brunswick Road/ School House Road

Figure 5: Re-Zone from B-1 to R-40

Figure 6: Re-Zone from B-1 to R-40

Ordinance 4371-22

If you have any questions on the proposed ordinance please feel to contact the following Township staff members: 

Mark Healey,
Director of Planning/ Senior Zoning Officer 732-873-2500 x6271
Mark.Healey@franklinnj.gov 

Vincent Dominach
Director of Economic Development/
Business Advocate 732-873-2500 x6274
Vincent.Dominach@franklinnj.gov

The public will also be provided an opportunity to ask questions and to provide comments at the hearing which has been scheduled for Tuesday, July 19, 2022 at 7:00 pm and will be held in the Council Chambers in the Franklin Township Municipal Building at 475 DeMott Lane, Somerset NJ

Ordinance 4371-22

With the growth of e-commerce and rising consumer expectations for same-day delivery services, the demand for large-scale warehousing for goods storage and distribution to businesses and retail customers has increased exponentially.

Due to New jersey’s strategic geographic position, skilled workforce, major consumer markets, and robust transportation infrastructure that serve the entire Northeast, New Jersey is an ideal location for the warehousing and goods movement industries. While, these industries contribute economic activity, jobs, and ratables to the state, warehousing can also generate substantial noise, traffic, and air pollution, especially from medium to heavy-duty diesel trucks.

Franklin Township has certainly been experiencing the exponential growth of warehouse development. Since 2018 the Township has received more than two dozen applications for the development of new or expanded warehouses. In total, these developments total several million square feet. A number of these applications are expected to result in lesser impact due to their nature (e.g., redevelopment or expansion of previously-developed warehouses or large-scale office buildings) and/or due to their location (e.g., in the middle of light industrial areas with no nearby sensitive land uses such as residentially-zoned areas and/or located in close proximity to the I-287 without the need for associated truck traffic to traverse residential areas of the Township). However, many of these applications are located in either close proximity to sensitive land uses (including residential zones) and/or are located a significant distance from I-287 (which would require associated truck traffic to traverse through residential areas of the Township). Particularly due to their location, such developments would be far more likely to produce negative impacts to sensitive land uses including noise, traffic, and air pollution.
As indicated above, the rapid growth of warehouse development is not unique to Franklin Township. Communities throughout New Jersey have experienced this phenomenon and its associated impacts. As a result, earlier this month the New Jersey State Planning Commission issued a report (https://www.nj.gov/state/planning/) (the “State Planning report”) which provides guidance to local governments to control warehouse development.

This ordinance is intended to reduce potential impacts of warehouse development. It incorporates a number of the considerations raised in the State Planning report and is supported by the Township Master Plan most notably the following goal and objectives related to such development:

Goal: Encourage commercial and industrial development in areas with access to major regional highways (I-287) and in established areas.

• Locate major employment and traffic-drawing uses in areas where they will least impact residential neighborhoods.
• Maintain size of industrial districts to ensure adequate space for light industry and warehousing.

You received a notice regarding the public hearing on this ordinance because you are the owner of record of property:
• Within the Business and Industry (B-I) zone or within one of the areas proposed to be rezoned
• Within two hundred feet (200 feet) of the Business and Industry (B-I) zone or within one of the areas proposed to be rezoned

Officers are trained and expected to make sound judgment and exercise appropriate use of force. When an officer has to use force, they are trained to utilize reasonable force when necessary to protect citizens and themselves. Officers are instructed and trained to always utilize the minimal use of force, ranging from verbal commands, gestures, warnings, chemical or natural agent spraying and hand-to-hand methods. All use of force incidents are reviewed by supervisors and Internal Affairs.

Verbal warnings are always an officer's first option prior to drawing a weapon or using force. However, each case may be handled on a case by case basis; and rely upon the officer's or citizen's level immediate danger of serious bodily injury or death.

In all instances when physical, mechanical or deadly force is used, each officer who has employed such force must complete a report and required forms.

In regards to background checks, thorough background checks are completed. Professional, personal and independent references are sought. Applicants are psychologically evaluated for 5 plus hours by licensed independent psychologist for all the concerns noted in the above question.

Medical attention is always required when any type of injury or pain is reported or observed during any encounter or following a use of force incident.

Are the Police encroaching on our privacy?

No. The program is one hundred percent voluntary. You may be visited regardless by officers conducting an investigative canvass if a crime occurs in the neighborhood. In addition to being asked about the specific event, you may be asked if you have cameras. You are free to decline to assist the police.

All of our officers have completed training that includes De-escalation, Special Needs/Mental Health De-escalation and Cultural Diversity. De-escalation training involves officers utilizing words and less lethal force for the majority of situations.

NJ Attorney General Guidelines restrict law enforcement officers from shooting at moving vehicles, except in extenuating circumstances, i.e. a vehicle driving directly at an officer or citizen whose life is in immediate danger.

• Carotid restraint techniques or 'hog-tying' methods are not methods officers are trained or authorized to perform. 

• As per Attorney General Guidelines, New Jersey law enforcement officers are not permitted to perform chokeholds, carotid artery neck restraints, or similar tactics on any individual, except in the very limited situations when deadly force is necessary to address an imminent threat to life. Our state's police academies have long instructed recruits on the dangers of 'positional asphyxiation,' a form of asphyxia that prevents suspects from breathing adequately, including by kneeling or otherwise placing weight on a subject's neck. Police Training Commission Defensive Tactics Manual ' 5.3.2 (2009). Because these tactics create a substantial risk of death or serious bodily harm, officers who cause a subject's death or injury while performing them face potential criminal liability.

• We properly transport all subjects in compliance with the motor vehicle safety restraints.

In New Jersey, an officer failing to intervene if they witness another officer using excessive force is considered a criminal violation, Official Misconduct, which has a mandatory five (5) year prison sentence.

Are you asking us to do the job of the police?

No. We are asking you to take an active part in helping make your community safer. Neighborhood Watch is a recognized crime prevention initiative that started many years ago; police asked neighbors to look out for neighbors. This is the technological extension of that program.

No, however, non-U.S. citizens must provide a copy of their Permanent Resident Alien Card.

If you have never been fingerprinted before for firearms purposes, you will need to go for fingerprinting. Upon completion of your FARS application submitted on https://www.njportal.com/NJSP/fars , Follow the instructions / link in your confirmation email to schedule your fingerprint appointment. However, if you have been fingerprinted before for firearm purposes, upon completion of this form and payment, you will have completed both the Firearms Application and 212A requirements.

If you need to be fingerprinted for a Carry Permit, please review our “Concealed Carry” section for further instructions.

Do the Police "Take Over" or have access to the monitoring?

No. The cameras and the footage recorded remain your property and the police do not have access to it unless you voluntarily hand it over if it is requested. Registration with Franklin Stronger Together Program and continual involvement with it is purely voluntary. You can withdraw your registration at any time.

To apply, please visit Firearms Application & Registration System (FARS) | New Jersey State Police (nj.gov) and follow the instructions.

Applications for Permits to Carry a Handgun are made through the Franklin Township Police Department (Somerset County). Please review our “Concealed Carry” section for more information.

If a police report has been made.

If no police report was made.

Yes. You are required to possess a valid Permit to Purchase a Handgun in order to purchase a handgun from a friend and /or acquaintance. The only circumstance not requiring a Permit to Purchase a Handgun is when the firearm(s) is inherited from a deceased individual.

Is it easy to enroll?

Yes. The form to register is very user friendly, and can be completed online in a matter of minutes. Just visit, https://franklintwp.seamlessdocs.com/f/strongertogether. A writable form will appear. Complete the entire form, and hit the submit button. It's that simple.

Our police officers train in use of force techniques, internal affairs reporting as required by the New Jersey Attorney General Directives and Guidelines; and is committed to the New Jersey Attorney General's Excellence in Policing Initiative.This initiative reinforces law enforcement Professionalism, Accountability and Transparency. Keep in mind that this training is mandated by the Attorney General's Office for law enforcement agencies throughout New Jersey.' For more information, please visit the following website: (www.nj.gov/oag/excellence).

• We utilize a trigger-based early warning system for types of incidents officers' are involved or encounter. This early warning system helps us monitor our officer's behavior and allows us to evaluate each officer for any potential issues.This system tracks the type of incidents officers are involved; and requires supervisors to monitor and re-assess each officer. If necessary, officers receive the necessary re-training, assistance and/or required discipline. We work with our Human Resources Director to make final determinations on discipline and/or terminations.

• There are no minimum requirements for the number of complaints before an officer is reprimanded, disciplined or terminated. Depending upon the violation, the officer may be disciplined after one (1) sustained violation of any of the department's policies and/or procedures.

Permits to Purchase a Handgun expire 90 days after being issued. Permits that have not been used and will expire can only be extended ONCE for an additional 90 days from the original date of expiration.

The State of New Jersey does not require you to possess or obtain a New Jersey Firearms Purchaser Identification Card and / or Permit to Purchase a Handgun to take possession of inherited firearms; however, you can not take possession if you would be disqualified from owning or possessing firearms subject to N.J.S.A. 2C-58-3. We highly recommend that you voluntarily register all the firearms with the State of New Jersey utilizing the Voluntary Form for Firearms Registration. This can be located at Firearms Forms to Download | New Jersey State Police (nj.gov) (Form S.P 650).

Franklin Police Department is in the process of coordinating various community policing activities and programs. It is important to stay connected to the community, either by attending meetings, viewing the updates on our website and/or social media sources. Please get involved!

What can I expect after I register?

Upon registration, you will receive a personal visit from a Franklin Township Police Officer to verify the enrollment information. Additionally, the officer will discuss important details about the program, make suggestions on camera placement, and can also conduct a site security survey. Upon completion of this process, you will receive a program decal that should be placed in a visible area on your home.

The Franklin Township Police Department charges $50.00 for a New Jersey Firearms Purchaser Identification Card and $25.00 for every Permit to Purchase a Handgun. Please be advised that all Firearms Purchaser Identification Cards and Permits to Purchase Handguns are now electronic.

Upon completion of your FARS Application in https://www.njportal.com/NJSP/fars., you will receive access to your Firearms Purchaser Identification card in your approval email. You will also receive confirmation of your E-Permits in your approval email, and you should provide that email to a NJ retail firearms dealer who will have access to execute your E-Permit.

Why do I need a decal?

The decal alerts people to the presence of security cameras, and helps to serve as a deterrent to criminals. The benefits extend beyond the home to include the community. Criminals are less likely to strike if they know they are on video, which increases the chance of being identified.

Why do the police want the Stronger Together Program?

The objective of the program is primarily to build a database of camera locations in our community. Adding a security camera to your property is an excellent crime prevention tool. Crime prevention is everyone's responsibility. The presence of cameras is a deterrent to crime. Allowing the police quick access to potential recordings of crimes in progress is a way for citizens to help make our communities safer for everyone.

Will anyone be able to see the database?

No. The list of registered properties is kept confidential and only the police will have access to it. When a crime occurs, officers can locate the scene on a crime map, and instantly see which residences have security video that may be of use.

Will I be contacted a lot because of this?

Initially, you will be contacted by a police officer to verify the accuracy of the information on your application. At that time, you will receive a program decal, and the officer will answer any additional questions that you may have about the program. After that, you will only be contacted if an incident occurs in your neighborhood and police think your security cameras may have recorded
something relevant.

We will be glad to answer your questions related to your drinking water.  Please call us at 732-249-7800, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM.

When you receive an unusual high water bill, it is a high possibility that you have a toilet valve leak or leak from one of your faucets.  Check your toilet, to make sure there is no leak.  To help you identify the toilet leak, put a dye pill in the toilet tank and see if the dye color gets in the toilet bowl without any flush.  To help you identify the toilet leak, we have dye pills available for pick up from the DPW office located at 40 Churchill Avenue in Franklin Township. 

You can also determine leaks by reading your water meter when no one is in the home for a period of time.  Write down the meter reading before you leave the house and compare the meter reading after you come back.  If the meter readings are significantly different, you may have a leak.  Please consult with your plumber to repair the leak.

Because the temporary by-pass is above-ground, it is more susceptible to temperature fluctuations. You should be able to resolve temperature issues by running a faucet to flush the line.

Call the Water Utility at 732-249-7800 as soon as possible to setup an appointment.

Curb stop is an underground valve which is located between water main and your water meter.  The curb stop can be operated by using a special key through the opening of a cast iron device called “curb box”.  The curb box is typically located between the sidewalk and curb or on your front lawn.  The curb box usually has a 4” round iron cap which prevents debris dropping into it. 

A working curb stop/curb box is important for reliable water service.  If you notice your curb box cap is missing, please contact Franklin Township Water at 732-249-7800 M-F 7am-3pm, so that we can have the curb box repaired before further damage occurs.

Please follow the boiling water guidelines to bring the water to “rolling boil” for 1 minute before drinking it.  Please contact Somerset County Health Department for more details 

Health Page

All Franklin Township Water Utility service staff wear uniforms which has a Franklin Township logo and they carry a Franklin Township employee photo ID.  You can ask them to put on shoe covers before entering your house.  As always, if you have any doubt or questions, simply call 732-249-7800 one of our representatives will confirm the appointment for you.

We leave a door tag when we attempt to get in touch with you.  So, please call us back when you notice a door tag at your door.  We typically leave a door tag when we need to get into your house to work on the water meter.  Please call us at 732-249-7800 as soon as possible to make an appointment with us whenever you receive a door tag from us.  When you have an appointment, make sure you are available at the appointment time.  If you cannot keep your appointment, please call us as soon as possible so that our service personnel can help other customers.

Turn on your tap slowly and run the cold water until the sputtering stops. Flush water pipe by running the water until it is clear.  Also, check the faucet screens for trapped particles. Remove the screens and clean out any particles. Put the screens back on the faucet.  Begin with the faucet that is highest up in your home or building and then open the other faucets one at a time moving from the highest floor to the lowest.

Water dispensers and ice makers are connected to your water line. You need to flush and clean them.  Follow the directions in the owner's manual or:

1. Throw out ice
2. Flush the water dispenser for 3 to 5 minutes
3. Run the ice maker for 1 hour
4. Throw out all the ice
5. Wash and sanitize bin areas
6. Change the filter cartridges. Some units need disinfecting. Follow the directions in the unit's owner's manual.

The old water mains will be removed and new mains installed in their place. Due to the nature of the work, this will require shutting off the old water main and installing a temporary, above-ground system of pipes and hoses (called the by-pass) to continue to provide water and fire service to the neighborhood.

Franklin Township does not have any water treatment facilities.  We buy treated water from our bulk suppliers.  Currently, our bulk suppliers are City of New Brunswick Water Department, New Jersey American Water Company and South Brunswick Township Water Department.

When you establish the water service, you pay for the water meter.  Therefore, the water meter is your property. 

When you request to temporary shutoff your water service, Franklin Township Water Utility will shut off the water service and remove the meter.  The removed meter will be given to you to keep in a heated and safe location.  When you request to have the water service turned back on, you should provide us with the water meter.  If the meter is damaged or lost, you will need to pay for another meter before the water service can be turned on.  Please note that the shutoff service is free of charge and the charge for service turn-on is $75 each time.

Franklin Township Water Utility Department operates 24/7.  If you have any water emergency outside of our regular office hour (7:00 to 3:00 PM, M-F), please contact Franklin Township Police Department at 732-873-5533 and one of our stand-by crew will respond to your call promptly.

Water meters do get old and become slow and inaccurate overtime.  Franklin Township Water Department has a meter replacement program which replaces meters in our entire system every 10 to 15 years.  To help us complete our work efficiently, please call us at 732-249-7800 to make an appointment as soon as possible whenever you receive a water replacement notice.

The project scheduled for your neighborhood is part of the Town's program to upgrade the water system. Many of the Town’s pipes are older and have been scheduled for replacement because of their age, a history of leaks, breaks or other problems. The larger water pipes that serve streets are called mains. Smaller water pipes that extend from the main to each house are called services.

Planned Events: The Contractor provides 48-hour advance notice and works to minimize the length of all planned water shut downs required to install new water mains. Water service may be disrupted for 4-6 hours or longer if unforeseen issues arise.

Emergency Events: Unexpected breaks can occur requiring the system to be shut down for repair. The length of time needed to repair the line and resume water service varies depending on the severity of the damage. As always, crews will do everything they can to make the needed repairs and return water service to you as soon as possible.

As part of the project, each water service is replaced from the water main to the shutoff in the Townships Right of Way. This section constitutes the Town’s portion of the water service. The section of water service from the shutoff box into the house is the responsibility of the owner. We recommend the owner review the condition of the water service to determine if replacement is desired. New water service lines are installed using copper pipe. We recommend that any private side water services that are a material other than copper (such as iron) be upgraded.

The Contractor will notify residents prior to the contractor mobilizing to begin work. They will provide notices at least 48-hours prior to work beginning and updates at important milestones. Any impacts to roadway or driveway access will be noted. Notices are provided using hang-tabs attached to front doors.

Franklin has no control over competition, its franchise agreement with Comcast is non-exclusive – which means other providers can offer services in Franklin if they so choose.

Duplicate copies can be printed by going on https://www.franklintwpnj.org/TaxWaterPayments and entering your address. You have the option to pay through the website or you can simply write on a separate paper or the memo area on your check when mailing or dropping off payment.

The PTR1A or PTR2A worksheet can only be dropped off of mailed with the Homeowner Information completed (Part 1). They must include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return.

Mail to:  

Township of Franklin
Attn: Tax Office
475 Demott Ln
Somerset, NJ 08873

Drop off at:        

Public Safety Building/Police Station
495 DeMott Lane
Somerset, NJ 08873

Submit an inquiry stating mortgage was paid off. Continue to use the bill to make payments and CROSS OUT advice copy. You will NOT receive another statement. Your next bill will be an original.

If your bill reads “THIS IS NOT A BILL – FOR ADVICE ONLY” please note this means your bank received the original and you received a duplicate copy for informational purposes.

If your bill does not read “THIS IS NOT A BILL” and you have a mortgage company, notify your mortgage company immediately the amount of your taxes and that our office needs the Bank Code Authorization Form. We need their information from them. They must fax to 732-342-8439 Attn: Bank Code.

Duplicate copies can be printed by going on https://www.franklintwpnj.org/TaxWaterPayments and entering your address. You have the option to pay through the website or you can simply write on a separate paper or the memo area on your check when mailing or dropping off payment.

The PTR1A or PTR2A worksheet can only be dropped off of mailed with the Homeowner Information completed (Part 1). They must include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return.

Mail to:  

Township of Franklin
Attn: Tax Office
475 Demott Ln
Somerset, NJ 08873

Drop off at:        

Public Safety Building/Police Station
495 DeMott Lane
Somerset, NJ 08873

Submit an inquiry stating mortgage was paid off. Continue to use the bill to make payments and CROSS OUT advice copy. You will NOT receive another statement. Your next bill will be an original.

If your bill reads “THIS IS NOT A BILL – FOR ADVICE ONLY” please note this means your bank received the original and you received a duplicate copy for informational purposes.

If your bill does not read “THIS IS NOT A BILL” and you have a mortgage company, notify your mortgage company immediately the amount of your taxes and that our office needs the Bank Code Authorization Form. We need their information from them. They must fax to 732-342-8439 Attn: Bank Code.

Township Manager is the Chief Executive Officer of the Township, provides for the administration of the Township’s daily operations.

Township Attorney  acts as legal counsel for the Township Council and all Township departments except as may be otherwise provided by resolution (for instance, the Planning Board, Board of Adjustment and Rent Leveling Board all have different attorneys.

Township Clerk is responsible for the administrative functions of the Council. Her office prepares agendas and minutes and handles official correspondence, legal notices, licenses, elections, public records and meeting distribution