Opening a Business in Highlands

Help is Around the Corner:
The Highlands Business Partnership and the Borough of Highlands want to make opening your business here as easy as possible. This fact sheet outlines the many steps to the process. With solid planning and communication, these are the things that can easily be incorporated into your plan.

Certificates of Occupancy (C.O.’s):
A Certificate of Occupancy is required at the time of change of occupancy of any property in the Borough of Highlands. The criteria for a CO are contained in Chapter 4-13 of the Highlands General Ordinances which can be viewed from the Borough's website, highlandsnj.us or by clicking here. All commercial units must be inspected between tenants. The Boca National Property Maintenance code of 1993 is the criteria used in these inspections. Click here to download the Certificate Of Occupancy Application.

Zoning:
Typically if you are changing the use of your property, you need a Zoning Permit which can be downloaded from the Borough Forms area on highlandsnj.us or by clicking here for the Borough Forms list. When in doubt, please call the Zoning Officer. One of the most frequently asked questions regarding both construction and zoning is whether or not a resident needs approval before beginning any type of construction. Whether a resident changes the use or makes an improvement to the property, chances are they will need a permit to legally begin construction.

Construction Code:
The Uniform Construction Code governs all of the construction and renovation of properties located in Highlands. Permits are required by the Borough of Highlands for any renovation of commercial buildings. Permit applications are available at the Borough Hall, 171 Bay Avenue. If you have any questions, contact our Construction Code office Monday through Friday. Click here for Borough Phone Directory.

Design Standards:
Built into our Zoning & Construction processes are Design Standards. If you plan on doing construction work of any kind in historic downtown areas, your plan will go in front of a committee for review. An explanation of Guidelines can be found at Borough Hall or can be downloaded by clicking here. Similarly, planned signs are reviewed by a separate committee to ensure all town signage conforms to the Borough Sign Ordinance (chapter 10-7) . This can be obtained from Borough Hall, from the Government Forms area on highlandsnj.us or downloaded by clicking here.

Tax Abatement for Property Improvements:
Based on need, improvements to buildings and their facades may be eligible for special tax abatements for up to five years. Click here to see the Tax Abatement Ordinance or contact the Borough Hall Tax Assessor at 732-872-1224, Ext. 211.