Show All Answers

1. What is the road right-of-way?

The right-of-way includes the public road and property adjoining the road where the municipality requires a right to have jurisdiction, access or consistency for items such as curb, sidewalk, hydrant, pole, valve or other utility related construction. In general, the right-of-way extends a minimum of ten feet from the edge of pavement of our public roads. The surface features of the right of way are generally maintained at the discretion of adjoining property owners in terms of grass cutting or brush removal.

2. Is a permit required for a driveway?

All driveways are regulated by the ordinance but application for permit is not always necessary. Application for permit is required only when the driveway does not comply with Ordinance requirements, in which case a variance and plan review will be necessary at the Zoning Board of Adjustment at a public hearing. Application for modifications to right-of-way may also be required at the Engineering Office, where sidewalk, curb, pavement or excavation takes place within the road right-of-way. For more information, please contact Engineering by phone at 973-593-3060.

3. Is a permit required for a sidewalk?

Sidewalks are regulated by the ordinance but application for permit is not always necessary. All permanent sidewalks within the road right-of-way require application for modifications to right-of-way at the Engineering Office. For sidewalks within the borough right-of-way, a reimbursement incentive is allowed by ordinance for repairs or replacement, although the property owner bears responsibility to execute this work, unless a borough tree has caused the sidewalk damage. For more information, please contact Engineering by phone at 973-593-3060.

4. Roof drains are being replaced or a sump pump is installed. Can the drains run off at the ground surface, into the storm sewer, into the road or is a seepage/infiltration chamber required?

At a local level, some discretion is allowed on small concentrated discharges such as roof drains or sump pumps. As a rule with new construction, the Borough of Madison encourages the use of seepage pits to collect and infiltrate roof runoff into the ground in an area hydraulically distant from basement structures (but within a setback area), for which a plan review is generally required by the Engineering Department. Concentrated rain water discharges to adjoining property are discouraged, and public storm sewer connections may be available to alleviate concentrated surface water. Sump pump discharges are strictly prohibited to any part of the sanitary sewer system, sink, shower or other sanitary drains. For more information, please contact Engineering by phone at 973-593-3060.

5. Is a permit required for a shed?

Sheds are regulated by the ordinance and application for permit is generally necessary for structures in excess of 100 square feet. Application is required particularly when the shed does not comply with ordinance requirements, in which case a variance and plan review will be necessary at the Zoning Board of Adjustment at a public hearing. For more information, please contact Engineering by phone at 973-593-3060.

6. Is a permit required for a sign?

All permanent signs require an application and review by the Building Department. and the Sign and Facade review committee. Temporary signs require a no-fee application. If there is a commercial non-conforming sign or replacement of an existing non-conforming sign, a site plan application must be submitted and reviewed by the Planning Board at a public hearing. Temporary signs complying with ordinance requirements are permitted without application. For more information, please contact Engineering by phone at 973-593-3060.

7. Is a permit required for a fence?

All permanent fences are regulated by the ordinance but application for permit is not always necessary. Application for permit is required only when the fence does not comply with Ordinance requirements, in which case a variance and plan review will be necessary at the Zoning Board of Adjustment at a public hearing. For more information, please contact Engineering by phone at 973-593-3060.

8. If there was a sewer blockage, what permits are necessary?

Except in an emergency situation where imminent damages are apparent, and retroactive permit issuance is allowed for documented work with a telephone call, a plumbing permit is required on private property from the Building Department, and application for modifications to right-of-way may also be required at the Engineering Office, where sidewalk, curb, pavement or excavation occurs within right-of-way. For more information, please contact Engineering by phone at 973-593-3060.

9. We are contemplating an addition to our home, how large can it be without a variance or public hearing being required?

Any project larger than a single family residence addition completed by the owner generally requires professional assistance from a qualified Architect or Engineer. In the case of owner-construction, first look up your block and lot number on the tax maps available in the ordinance, the Clerk's Office, or on ROSENET. Second, look up your zone designation on the zoning map. Third, look at the bulk requirements related to the zone in the ordinance. Fourth, look at special restrictions of the zone or on the type of construction proposed. Fifth, look at Uniform Construction Code and Fire Code restrictions.

Finally, submit legible scaled plans of the addition and location of the addition for review and comment by qualified Borough Officials. For more information, please contact Engineering by phone at 973-593-3060.

Show All Answers

1. How much does an inspection cost?

$75 initial an additional $40 if a re-inspections is needed.

Show All Answers

1. Can I pay my Utility Bill(s) online?

Yes. Click Here to Pay

2. How do I pay for a traffic ticket?

Online at NJMC Direct. Click here to pay for a traffic ticket.

3. How can I get involved in the Madison community?

By filling out the following form: Click here for volunteer forms!

4. Where can I find all Permits and Applications?

You will find all permits and applications here.

Show All Answers

1. What has been accomplished in Madison's GIS?

Madison retained a Geographic Information System (GIS) consultant to work on basic parcel mapping on Dec. 28, 1998 (R178-98) and on Sept. 13, 1999 (R125-99). On April 20, 2000, a compact disk was published containing the parcel maps and several basic layered coverages such as roads, parcels, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, fire hydrant, utility pole locations, etc. There has been additional work done to add basic topography and state digital aerial color photography to the collection of coverage. In the latter part of 2001, several meetings were held with the County of Morris in order to coordinate the use of updated GIS information including high resolution digital aerial ortho-photography and geo-referenced digital tax maps in exchange for periodic maintenance by the Borough staff.

Many internet based coverage have been produced by staff and posted to the Rosenet (under Engineering Department/Borough Maps) for access and use by the public, thereby providing evidence of product for the initial costs of data acquisition. There are also Computer Aided Drafting/Design (CADD) drawings available on the Rosenet, as accomplished through staff, although access time/file size is large.

2. How does Madison benefit from the GIS data?

Businesses and governments alike are plagued by having too much information in a relatively inaccessible format distributed over many source locations. A Geographic Information System provides a way to centralize and organize information electronically so that decisions regarding Land Use, Planning, Zoning, Building, Assessment, Collections, Emergencies, Infrastructure, Maintenance etc. are well informed and less time consuming. The expenses associated with lack of information and accessibility are real. Centralized access make the goals of open government far easier to realize and can reduce the burden of staff addressing individual informational needs and requests and allow them to proceed with assigned responsibilities with less interruption.

Show All Answers

1. Does the Mayor perform wedding ceremonies?

The Mayor performs wedding ceremonies in his office upon request. Please call 973-593-3038 to schedule an appointment

2. Is there a fee for the Mayor to perform wedding ceremonies?

The Mayor does not charge a fee for performing wedding ceremonies. However, if the wedding couple wishes, they may make a contribution to a local charitable organization such as the Madison Rotary Foundation which supports Madison charities.

3. Who should we contact to get a wedding license?

Please contact the Registrar at the Madison Health Department at 973-593-3079 Ext. 1 for information on wedding licenses.

Show All Answers

1. What must I do if I plan to plead not guilty?

If you intend to plead not guilty to the offense charged in the Summons and Complaint and have a trial, you must notify the Court of your intention at least 7 days prior to your scheduled court date. If you fail to notify the Court it may be necessary for you to make 2 court appearances. Please notify Court of disability accommodation needs.

2. When is a court appearance required?

If "Court Appearance Required" is checked on the Summons and Complaint, you must appear in court at the time and place indicated if you did not notify the Court of a not guilty plea, or are pleading guilty. Please notify the Court of disability accommodation needs.

3. What if I plan to plead guilty and pay the prescribed penalty?

If you wish to plead guilty and give up your rights to have a lawyer and a trial you may do so provided the "Court Appearance Required" has not been checked on the Summons and Complaint and provided the charge is listed on the Violations Bureau Schedule. The more frequently charged State and/or Local (Supplemental) Violations Bureau offenses and prescribed penalties are listed on the back of your Motor Vehicle Summons/Complaint.

You may also telephone the Violation Bureau to determine whether other offenses are listed on either the State or Local (Supplemental) Violations Bureau and and the amount of the penalty. If the Violations Bureau is authorized to dispose of this charge, complete in full the appearance, plea, and waiver on the back of the Summons and Complaint and bring or mail to the Violations Bureau at:
50 Kings Road
Madison, NJ 07940

4. How do I make payment by mail?

If payment is to be made by mail, do not send cash. Please send check or money order payable to the "Madison Joint Court." If payment is received by the violations Bureau after the appearance date, you may be assessed additional penalties. A receipt will be sent to you only if your payment is accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope.

5. What if I fail to appear in response to a summons or to pay the prescribed penalty?

If you fail to appear in response to a summons or to pay the prescribed penalty additional penalties may result, a warrant may be issued for your arrest and your driving privileges in New Jersey may be revoked.

6. What if I have been charged with a parking offense and fail to appear or pay the prescribed penalty?

If you have been charged with a parking offense, your failure to appear or pay the prescribed penalty shall be considered an admission of liability and a default judgment may be entered against the owner of the vehicle.

7. Do I need a lawyer?

The Court may not advise you on whether to hire an attorney. If you feel you need an attorney, the choice would be yours.

8. Must I hire my own lawyer?

Yes, you must hire your own lawyer.

9. What if I cannot afford a lawyer?

If you cannot afford a lawyer and you are charged with a serious offense involving possible loss of driver’s license or jail, you may apply to the court for a public defender.

10. Do I have to pay for the Public Defender?

You may be charged a fee between $25 - $200 depending on your financial status.

Show All Answers

1. What is wireless Internet and what do I need to use it?

You need a wireless-enabled laptop to use this WiFi access point. Many recently purchased laptops are configured for a Wireless Internet and some come equipped with a wireless card. Otherwise you will need to purchase a WiFi capable network card ($50 - $90). WiFi uses a 2.4 GHz microwave radio signal to reach through walls, floors and ceilings just like a cordless phone. Access points have a network name called a Service Set Identifier (SSID).

2. How does it work?

Wireless access points are located throughout the library. These points communicate with your wireless device. You should be able to connect almost anywhere in the building and on the grounds. A message will appear on your screen indicating a wireless network is available when your wireless network card senses a signal.

3. What software is needed?

Many wireless Internet laptops will automatically find the wireless network and automatically configure the WiFi network card to XXX. Windows XP contains software in the operating system to automatically find wireless networks within range of the laptop. If your laptop has trouble finding the network, it could be a problem with the network card configuration information or with the software.

Check your manufacturer’s literature for wireless card configuration information to make sure that the card is configured with MPLTrain, MPLChild, and MPLAdmin and does not have data security encryption enabled.

For software problems you should consider downloading a free utility from Boingo that will find wireless networks. You don’t have to subscribe to the Boingo service to use the free utility program on their website.

4. What can I do from this access point?

The WiFi access point allows you to connect your laptop to the Internet at broadband speeds. Through this connection you can surf the web, access the library catalog, conduct Instant Messenger conversations, and check your email. Many Internet Service Providers (ISP) offer web-based email for situations when you don’t have direct access to your ISP account. Check with your ISP to see if they have a web-based email for sending and receiving messages.

Users are expected to follow the Madison Public Library’s Acceptable Use Policy when using this WiFi connection.

5. Are radio signals safe?

The WiFi network meets all guidelines for safety.

6. Are my data or email secured?

Wireless transmissions, by their nature, can be intercepted very easily. The transmissions in and out of your laptop over a wireless network can be easily captured and/or read. If your data are not encrypted when they leave your computer they are not secure. It is recommended that you do not use this wireless Internet for secure transactions, such as banking, investments, or even proprietary information. More authoritative information is available on the Free WiFi Hotspots website.

7. Can the library staff help me configure my computer?

You are responsible for knowing how to configure your own equipment.

Show All Answers

1. What is a Municipal ID?

For many residents, municipal ID cards provide meaningful access to civic and economic life that they simply would not otherwise have. Municipal IDs are identification cards issued by local governments to all local residents. They feature the photo of the cardholder, along with other basic identifying information such as address and date of birth. Although available to all residents of a city, the cards are particularly valuable for the most vulnerable community members—undocumented immigrants, the homeless, foster youth, the elderly, formerly incarcerated individuals, and others who may have difficulty obtaining other government-issued ID.

2. How many cities in New Jersey have a Municipal ID?

Currently, the municipalities of Newark, Roselle, Perth Amboy, Paterson, Elizabeth, New Brunswick, Dover, Plainfield, Morristown and Highland Park issue municipal IDs.

3. Why is this card necessary?

We are asked for photo ID all of the time – entering public buildings, picking our kids up from school, filling a prescription. Yet many of the residents of our Borough face barriers to obtaining government-issued photo ID. Without an ID, residents have had trouble opening a bank account, picking up a package or fear reporting a crime to law enforcement because they lack government issued photo ID. When every resident of our town has access to documentation, we will all be readily identified, feel more secure reporting crimes and will all be safer.

4. Where are Municipal IDs accepted?

Municipal IDs are accepted at any municipal institution, including schools, the police department and municipal court. Many financial institutions, including banks and credit unions, accept municipal IDs as primary or secondary identification to open an account. IDs can help in day to day activities like filling a prescription, picking up a package or applying for a library card. They are not valid for federal purposes, like boarding an airplane, or to obtain a driver’s license in New Jersey. In some cases, they may also provide the cardholder with benefits at local businesses, museums, and entertainment venues.

5. Do Municipal IDs grant immigrants access to benefits?

Municipal IDs do not grant immigrants access to benefits that they do not otherwise qualify for. For example, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for food stamps under federal law. A municipal ID would not change that and a person who is not eligible for food stamps could not use the ID to obtain the benefit.

6. Isn’t there a County ID program for this purpose?

No, there is not a County ID program for this purpose in Morris County.

7. How is this better/different from a State-issued ID from motor vehicles?

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission State ID and driver’s license require that applicants complete a rigorous six-point documentation verification, that thousands of Madison residents simply cannot complete because they lack the required documentation. Therefore, the State issued ID is not available to many residents. The Madison ID card will also have a rigorous application process. Applicants must submit proof of identity and residency in Madison, and these documents will be authenticated using state of the art technology. It is critical to preserve the validity of the IDs while also protecting our residents’ privacy. However, the documents accepted to apply for a Madison ID are more flexible and accessible to the vast majority of residents.

8. What benefits are associated with the Madison ID card?

In addition to a government-issued photo ID, the Madison ID is a Library Card and grants the cardholder all borrowing privileges to the Madison Public Library. Madison ID cardholders may also receive discounts to local businesses and attractions.

9. Can this card also be used as a Library Card?

Yes.

10. What services are provided through the Library card?

Cardholders have the opportunity to check out books, DVDs and other circulating Library materials. Cardholders also get unlimited daily use of the public computers at the Madison Library; this includes access to language-learning programs, research resources, streaming services and test-prep programs, some of which are available remotely (at home) online as well as at the Library.

11. Can you get the Madison ID if you already have a Library card?

Yes. Just bring your library card when you come to your appointment. Congratulations – you are already closer to getting your municipal ID.

12. How can a municipality protect itself against fraud?

Municipal ID cards should be designed, and programs implemented, in such a way as to prevent fraud and misuse. There are three main components to card security: card design, document authentication and penalties for fraud. One of the simplest ways to prevent fraud is by making the card difficult to counterfeit by including holograms or other tamperproof features. Second, staff should be well-trained in document review to authenticate documents. Finally, cities can implement penalties to deter fraud. Notably, there have been almost no instances of suspected fraud in any of the jurisdictions that currently run municipal ID card programs. When New York City released its first quarterly report to the City Council in March 2015, there were only two instances of possible fraud detected among more than 100,000 processed applications for the IDNYC.

13. How will the Borough of Madison protect the privacy of applicants to the ID program?

Our town is committed to protecting the privacy of all of our residents. Our diversity is our strength and we value every resident of our community. The Madison Municipal ID program has some of the strongest privacy protections in the country. These protections are enshrined in the legislation that established the program. For example, the town will not keep copies of documentation presented to apply for the ID card nor will applicants be asked questions about their immigration status or criminal record.

Show All Answers

1. How can I pay a motor vehicle summons I received?

You may pay a summons online. Payment may also be made by mail but do not send cash; please send a check or money order payable to the Madison Joint Court. If payment is received by the Violations Bureau after the appearance date you may be assessed additional penalties. A receipt will be sent to you only if your payment is accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. Online Payment

2. Where is the Joint Municipal Court located?

The Joint Municipal Court is located inside the Hartley Dodge Memorial Building located at 50 Kings Road in Madison, New Jersey 07940.

Show All Answers

1. Where is the Madison Police Department located?

Our address is 62 Kings Road, Madison, New Jersey 07940. The public entrance is located on the corner of Kings Road and Prospect Street. Parking for police visitors is located on Kings Road in Municipal Lot 3 which is adjacent to where the police vehicles are parked.

2. What is the non-emergency phone number for the Police Department?

You can contact us via phone at 973-593-3000.

3. How can I commend an officer?

Thank you for passing along the kind words; you may fill out the following Thank An Officer form.

4. How can I file a complaint against an officer?

Your complaint is important to us and will be investigated thoroughly. You may choose to come in personally to the Police Department, call us on our non-emergency line, or a member of our staff may visit you to complete the report regardless of the hour or day of the week.

5. How can I become a police officer in Madison?

For Madison Police Department recruitment information, please click here.

6. How can I become a crossing guard?

Thank you for your interest! Follow this link to complete an application.

7. How can I connect with the Madison Police Department through social media?

The Borough of Madison actively engages the community through social media. Follow us on Facebook (The Borough of Madison New Jersey) and Twitter (@MadisonNJ_gov)

8. I am a new business owner, how can I supply my emergency contact information?

Simple! Click on this link and the form will be e-mailed to the appropriate officials. Emergency Contact Form

Show All Answers

1. How can I obtain an annual parking permit?

Contact parking@rosenet.org to obtain the most appropriate annual parking permit application. All applications are submitted online and require copies of your license, registration and in some instances proof of employment in Madison. For more information, click here. 

2. What does an annual parking permit cost?

The 2020 parking permit fees are as follows:

Commuter Resident: $450.00

Merchant/Employee: $100.00 with a bulk rate available upon request for those looking to acquire six or more permits. 

Residential Tenant: $175.00

3. How can I be added to the waiting list for a Commuter Resident Parking Permit?

4. I would like to shop in Madison, where can I park?

There are typically many places to park. For more information, click here. 

parking map (PDF).

5. I would like to take the train out of Madison and I do not have a parking permit, where can I park?

You may park in the parking lot on the Kings Road side of the Madison Train Station or in the designated spots in the Kings Road Lot for $7 per day. Payments may be made through the BoxCar app.

6. May I park my vehicle overnight at the Madison Train Station?

No, but you may park in the Kings Road Lot overnight in designated areas as long as the $7 for the following day is pay via the BoxCar app.

7. Where can I find the local ordinances in Madison?

Information in regards to Parking Lots can be found in Chapter 134 of Borough Code.

ordinances for Madison.

Show All Answers

1. How do I put my house on the vacation watch list?

Complete a form which can be found here.

2. How do I get updates from the Police about emergency information?

The Borough of Madison will begin utilizing AlertMadison to communicate emergency information to residents and visitors. Visit AlertMadison.org to register for free. Included in your registration with AlertMadison is Smart911, a potentially life-saving 9-1-1 component that is free for Madison residents. To learn more about Smart911, visit www.smart911.com 

* Nixle will be replaced with AlertMadison on November 1, 2019.
Until November 1, 2019, both Nixle and AlertMadison will be used for notifications. 

AlertMadison

3. How do I start a Neighborhood Watch program for my neighborhood?

Thank you for your interest, we have found the Neighborhood Watch program to be invaluable. Contact Detective Sergeant Paul Kosakowski via e-mail at KosakowskiP@rosenet.org, or via phone at 973-593-3007.

4. How do I schedule a child’s car seat inspection/installation?

Did you know that 7 out of 10 children are restrained improperly? Car seat inspections are conducted by appointment. To schedule, please contact the Traffic Safety Bureau by phone at 973-593-3005. 

Show All Answers

1. I was involved in a motor vehicle crash; what should I do next?

Notify your insurance provider of the crash. If your insurance would like you to obtain a copy of the crash report, it is easy! Accessing Crash Reports Online

2. How do I report a traffic problem or submit a traffic complaint?

Fill out a traffic complaint form online.

Show All Answers

1. Why did we go through this revaluation?

It was mandated by Morris County consistent with New Jersey state law. The last revaluation was effective 13 years ago in 2000. It is appropriate to have properties assessed at close to, if not at, current market value. Prior to the revaluation, the official assessed property values were less than 60% of the market value. Hence, it is clear that Madison was overdue for a revaluation.

2. Why are the tax bills marked estimated?

The largest portion of your tax bill is paid to the Board of Education, which has approved a 2% increase. Next in size is the Borough of Madison, which approved an increase of 1.48%. However the county government has yet to tell us how much their portion will increase. Since we need money to keep our schools and government running we had to estimate the county portion of your tax bill. In order to avoid having to come back for an additional increase our estimate for the county is conservative. If the final county portion is lower, then an adjustment will be made to your fourth quarter tax bill.

3. Am I correct in multiplying the amount due in August by 4 to calculate my annual tax?

No, that would be a mistake. Because the budgets for the school, county and municipality are not finalized until the middle of the second quarter, any tax increase for the year is reflected in the final two quarters. Read more about calculating annual taxes online.

4. Why wasn’t the assessed value of all houses increased by the same amount?

Many variables affecting the current value of your home have changed since the last revaluation 13 years ago. The overall condition of your home, whether you made significant improvements to your home, recent sales in your neighborhood, the overall real estate market for homes in your price range etc. all influence not only the actual value of your home, but also its value relative to other homes in the borough.

5. I thought the revaluation would not affect the taxes on my home but it has. Why is that?

The revaluation did not affect the total amount of property taxes collected, but it did affect the amount of taxes collected on each home. Although the assessed value of homes went up an average of 63% every home did not go up that amount. Therefore it only makes sense that homes with higher than average increases in assessed value would see an increase in taxes whereas a home that appreciated by less than the average would likely see a decrease in taxes.

6. What can I do if I believe that the revaluation of my home is too high?

Find out more about why you suspect that your home revaluation is high online.