How long does it take to get a permit?

An applicant’s clock starts ticking the moment a completed application is brought in. The emphasis is on complete. The Conservation Commission will call you and alert you to any omissions. The Commission has 21 days to review the application and hold a public hearing. Although an application may be complete, upon review the Commission may decide that it needs additional information in order to make an informed decision. If this is the case, the hearing may be continued for two more weeks. After the hearing is closed, the Commission has 21 days to issue a permit.

In general, the Conservation Commission tries to issue permits soon after the hearing; however, a permit cannot be issued until DEP has reviewed the file and issued a State number. State numbers can be delayed due to incomplete submissions to the State or if the forms are not mailed to the state promptly (the applicants responsibility).