The attorneys at Gruber, Colabella, Thompson, Hiben & Montella are well-versed in a variety of property development, land use, and zoning issues. Our property development lawyers recognize that the real estate arena is complex and highly regulated, particularly in northern New Jersey. Being a successful property manager means handling a wide range of issues, including contracts, leasing, construction, and the operation of projects. Legal delays can be costly, and we are here to ensure the smooth operation of your real estate business. We are confident that our legal team will provide effective results and strong advocacy on behalf of our clients.
We prioritize finding the most efficient resolutions to your real estate challenges. Every case and client is different, but as a general rule of thumb, out-of-court resolutions are more cost-effective. However, in cases where litigation is necessary, you can be assured that our firm enjoys a strong reputation for aggressively representing our clients in court.
NJ Zoning Issues
Our attorneys will work with you before any zoning or planning board meetings. We have a firm grasp on how NJ zoning laws and ordinances might be interpreted by various localities. Our years of experience allow us to advise land developers in acquiring proper permits in the fastest and most economical ways possible.
Some of the services our team can provide include:
- Enforcement Actions
- Purchase Sales and Agreements
- Title and Boundary Disputes
- Residential and Commercial Subdivision
- Nonconforming Uses
Variances
On occasion, a landowner will need a variance from a local zoning bylaw in order to use the property for a specific purpose or to erect a structure. Most often, this will happen when a property does not meet local ordinances for the location or size of a structure, or when the use of the property is changed. To qualify for a variance, the property owner will need to provide evidence for the request. Our team of qualified attorneys can provide legal advice and guidance throughout this process.
Occasionally, a variance may face a challenge from a zoning board. In the event that your request for a variance is denied or challenged by an appeal, our attorneys will review all the documents submitted in support of your request as well as the reports and materials in opposition. We will seek to correct any errors and defend your request to the local board.
Site Plan Approval
Our seasoned property development lawyers can perform a detailed analysis of your real estate development plans. Upon review, we will provide you with a detailed report of potential pitfalls. The beginning of a project is an important time to engage our team of attorneys to ensure that your plans meet local requirements. A delay caused by filing improper or erroneous paperwork can be both time-consuming and costly.
Additionally, you may encounter challenges with permits early in your development process. We will work to provide a swift resolution in order to protect your interests quickly in these matters. If you are looking for solutions to challenges that you are facing with your New Jersey site development plans, call us for a consultation.
Subdivision
You can rely on the experience of our NJ real estate attorney team to:
- Provide you with advice regarding a proposed subdivision
- Identify areas in which your project may be in violation of local subdivision rules and regulations prior to filing
- Collaborate with your land surveyors and engineers through the process of the subdivision to ensure compliance with local laws.
- Provide representation in the event that your application for a subdivision is denied.
- Represent you when a person from the community files an appeal to the board’s approval of your subdivision.
Frequently Asked Questions About NJ Property Development
What is the difference between a c and d variance in New Jersey?
Under the New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law, a bulk or c variance (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70c) addresses dimensional issues such as setbacks, lot size, or building height, while a use or d variance (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70d) permits a use the zoning ordinance would otherwise prohibit. A d variance is more demanding to obtain and requires at least five affirmative votes of the zoning board of adjustment.
Does the planning board or the zoning board hear my application?
It depends on what you are asking for. The zoning board of adjustment hears use variances and appeals of a zoning officer decision, while the planning board reviews site plans and subdivisions. Some smaller municipalities combine these functions into a single land use board, so confirm which body governs your property before filing.
How long does site plan or subdivision approval take in New Jersey?
Timelines vary by municipality and by how complete your application is when submitted. The Municipal Land Use Law sets statutory periods within which a board must act once an application is formally deemed complete, but incomplete submissions or missed public notice requirements are a common source of avoidable delay. For related dimensional and use questions, our attorneys also handle land use and zoning matters throughout the region.
Contact Our NJ Property Development Lawyers
For assistance with any property development matter, simply contact Gruber, Colabella, Thompson, Hiben & Montella for a team of skilled lawyers today.
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