The Bloomfield Fire Department's paid force is governed by the rules and regulations of the New Jersey Department of Personnel. A state test is given every 2 years in which you are scored and ranked. The Township then receives a list of eligible candidates, and when a vacancy occurs, a position is then offered to the person or persons on the top of the list. More information regarding the testing process can be found on the New Jersey Department of Personnel's website.

Yes. New Jersey State Law requires that each home have a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide detectors shall be installed outside of the sleeping area. The Fire Department has specialized equipment to test the air for carbon monoxide. A sounding detector could mean that there is a high concentrate of carbon monoxide in your home. Carbon monoxide is called the "Silent Killer" because it can reduce the amount of oxygen we breathe. Since carbon monoxide has no smell, we have no idea when you have a leak.

It depends on the type of residence you live in. One and two family homes, built prior to 1990, can use battery-operated smoke detectors. All other homes, 3 family and above, are required to have hard wired smoke detectors, either 120 volt or 24 volt. All new homes built after 1990 should have hard wired smoke detectors in them.

Smoke Detectors are designed to provide an early warning to a fire. Smoke detectors should be located in Common Areas (i.e. stairways and basements) and inside sleeping rooms and there should definitely be one just outside of all of the sleeping rooms.

When a battery starts to run low on power, the smoke detector will chirp intermittently to alert you to change your battery. However, you should not wait until it chirps to change the battery. Batteries last about one year in a smoke detector before they start to lose power. A good rule of thumb is to change your batteries when you change your clocks. That will have you changing your batteries at least twice a year enabling your smoke detector to have a good battery in it at all times.

Not only will we install a smoke detector for the seniors and needy, but if they live in a one and two family house, and can’t afford a smoke detector, we will provide one for you for free. Unfortunately, you must live in a one or two family house. New Jersey State Law requires that landlords provide smoke detectors to tenants in homes 3 families or larger, therefore we are unable to provide those people with free smoke detectors.

Bloomfield Township Code requires that all people who sell their homes must get a Continuing Certificate of Occupancy from the Building Department. This certificate will suffice for the smoke and carbon monoxide detector compliance. Should your bank insist on a separate certificate, the Fire Prevention Bureau will issue the separate certificate. (There is a $35.00 charge so see if they will accept the one certificate; New Jersey State Law allows for the use of one certificate.)

Strictly, no. It is a violation of the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code to burn openly. This includes leaves, branches, lumber, paper and cardboard. Absolutely no open burning of any kind is allowed.

Propane grills are prohibited from being used on terraces. The reason is that the propane gas, not the fire, presents a danger to the home.

The New Jersey Uniform Fire Code and the National Fire Protection Association recommend that propane appliances are the safest when used a minimum of 5 feet away from a building.

As a "Service Oriented" department, we will endeavor to assist you in gaining entrance to your home if you are locked out. Some new doors and/or locks make it impossible for us to gain entry without doing damage to a door or window. But should you find yourself in this situation, call us and we will do our best to assist you.

Most basement apartments are illegal, especially in 3 family houses, because they do not meet the egress requirements of the building code.

If you have a basement apartment or are considering building one, please check with the Building Inspector in Town Hall for information on requirements and compliance with the Building Code.

If an oil tank is not used anymore, an owner has one year to have it removed or abandoned in place. A Fire Sub-Code permit from the Building Department is required. If an oil tank was removed, and a permit was obtained from the Building Department to remove it, the documentation is available in the Fire Department and/or the Building Department. Just give us a call at the Fire Prevention Bureau and we will check it out for you.

As much as we love little animals, we will attempt to help you but, we cannot risk a firefighter’s safety in doing so. We will endeavor to help you but most cats come down the same way they get up.

The Fire Department does assist residents when local flooding occurs. However, we may not be able to 'pump out' all of the accumulated water. Generally speaking, the pumps available to the department and the town, are used only when there is more then 10 inches of standing water. The pumps will only pump down to approximately the 6 inch level.

A flooded basement has two main safety concerns. Should the water level reach any electrical outlets or the electrical panel. The entire basement could be electrically charged and power should be disconnected before stepping into the water. Additionally, if you have gas heat and/or hot water, the gas main should also be shut down as to prevent natural gas leaking into your home. Only the Public Service Enterprise Group should re-light your heating unit or your hot water heater.

While no one desires to create unnecessary 'noise' and disturb the public's rest, the use of sirens and air horns are necessary and in fact required by law to alert drivers and pedestrians of the presence of emergency vehicles responding to an incident. In today's world with drivers using air conditioning, cell phones, and loud car stereos, many drivers have a difficult time hearing and responding to oncoming emergency vehicles. While every effort is made to limit the use of sirens and air horns at night and early morning hours, their use cannot be eliminated completely.

The Fire Department does not collect or dispose of old propane tanks or fire extinguishers. They can be disposed of through the Essex County Hazardous Waste Facility. The facility usually schedules one day in the spring when you can bring certain hazardous materials that need disposal to their facility. Their phone number is 973-857-2350.

Many homeowner insurance companies will ask how far your house is from a fire house and a fire hydrant. Every structure in Bloomfield is located within 200 feet of a fire hydrant and within 1 mile of a fire station.

You must appear in court on the date indicated on the summons.  At that time you will be informed of your rights in the Municipal Court.  You may wish an opportunity to seek legal counsel, or you may apply for a public defender.  In any case you will be directed by the Municipal Court Judge as to the next step.

Any person who is dissatisfied with the outcome of their case, they may file an appeal to the superior court of New Jersey.  1^st step is to request a transcript from Bloomfield Municipal court, check or money order made out to G & L Transcribers for $500.00, then you can either ask for an appeal packet at our violations bureau window or you may go to Municipal Court Forms on this website and print it out for yourself.

All fines and court costs are expected to be paid the day of court.  If you cannot pay them you must fill out a financial questionnaire and you will be seen by the judge to determine your eligibility.

If you fail to comply with a Court Directive, the Municipal Court may order a bench warrant for your arrest, suspend your driver and or registration privileges and impose additional sanctions for your noncompliance.

0702

It depends on the ticket type and who issued the ticket.  If it’s a Electronic ticket (the prefix would begin with an E) it’s automatically I our court system.  If it’s a Bloomfield officer who issued a handwritten ticket it will take about 4 to 7 days to be entered into our system.  If it’s a State police officer or any other officer it can take up to 2 weeks (14 days) to be entered in to our system. 

No, you have to pay the ticket in the town in which you received the ticket.

You can obtain a marriage license in the health dept. in the town which you or your partner live in.

We have a wedding schedule only 1 wedding per day and only on specific days and times.  If you would like for our Judges to marry you, you must contact this office to make an appointment.

On your court day you need to ask the judge for a financial questionnaire fill out the application the judge will review it, and assign a public defender to you if you are approved. 

On your next court date.

The Essex County Probation Dept. will assign the location.  They will take into consideration where you live and work.

All discovery requests should be directed to the Bloomfield Municipal Prosecutor.  You may mail it in, or fax it.

All points are assessed by the NJ MOTOR VEHICLE COMMISSION.

Please read the Protection from Contamination section (PDF) of Chapter 24 (PDF) in Sanitation in Retail Food Establishments and Food and Beverage Vending Machines.

Please read the Heating Ordinance (PDF).

View the License application and pre-opening requirements (PDF).

Read the following documents on Food Establishments:

• Chapter 24: Sanitation in Retail Food Establishments and Food and Beverage Vending Machines (PDF)
• Food Establishment Information (PDF)

Yes; view the Food Handlers Course Schedule (PDF).

• Screenings

Appointment requirements vary depending on the service. For example, vaccines typically require an appointment, while some screenings may not. Please call the office at 973-680-4058 for specific information about scheduling. You can also view upcoming screening dates on the Available Screenings page.

No, the Health Department does not provide TB skin testing. For information about other sites that offer testing, please call the Public Health Nursing Office at 973-680-4058.

No; attached are recommendations on safe syringe disposal (PDF) as provided by the New Jersey Department of Health.

Limited financial assistance is available for Essex County residents. Call us for eligibility criteria 973-680-4017

The Essex county welfare workers assist residents once a month to complete new NJ SNAP applications. Call 973-680-4017 for an appointment.

There are a few utility assistance programs available depending on income eligibility. We may assist with the applications by appointment. Applications are also available online:

http://www.njshares.org/

http://www.lacasanwk.org/

We have a certified application counselor in our office. 

Contact us to set up an appointment to discuss your options. 973-680-4017

You can also visit the marketplace 

 https://www.healthcare.gov/

We provide mental health services such as counseling for residents who are not insured or  are underinsured. 

Contact us for more information 973-680-4017

There are various services provided for seniors such as Medicare savings programs, volunteer services, food services, transportation resources etc. 

Contact us for resources 973-680-4017

Llame a Servicios Humanos al 973-680-4017. Usted podría ser elegible para la subvención para la prevención de la falta de vivienda. A continuación se presentan las directrices para el programa.

• Directrices para fondos para prevenir la falta de vivienda (PDF)
• Folleto de programa prevenir la falta de vivienda (PDF)

Leer el folleto de la van movil de bienestar (PDF).

Lea los siguientes recursos:

• La Casa de Don Pedro
• New Jersey Shares
• Revision de Beneficios (PDF)

Lea los siguientes recursos:

• Healthcare.gov
• New Jersey Family Care
• Periodo de Inscripcion Especial (ObamaCare) (PDF)

Leer el Servicios de Salud Mental (PDF).

Lea esta una lista de servicios disponible (PDF).

Si. Por favor llame a la oficina 973-680-4058.

Si. Por favor llame a la oficina para mas detalles y una cita  973-680-4058. Adjunto para su conveniencia es el formulario de detección / consentimiento requerido (PDF).

Sí. La Prueba de Química de la Sangre se ofrece dos veces al año. Por favor llame a la Oficina de Enfermería de Salud Pública al 973-680-4058 para detalles y horarios de citas. Se requiere prepago y pre-registro. Adjunto para su conveniencia es el formulario de detección / consentimiento requerido (PDF).

No. Se adjuntan recomendaciones sobre la eliminación segura de la jeringa (PDF) según lo proporcionado por el Departamento de Salud de New Jersey.

To pay tickets and/or violations, go to the Police Department.

Address:
Police Department
1 Municipal Plaza
2nd Floor
Bloomfield, NJ 07003

To learn about yard sale rules, contact the Building and Inspections Department.

You may obtain a Marriage or Civil Union License at the Health Department. An appointment is required; call 973-680-4029 to make an appointment. There is a $28 fee to be paid in cash.

You can get information on garbage and recycling by contacting the Department of Public Works and Park Maintenance at 973-680-4127.

To get a resident parking permit for on-street parking, visit the Police Department.

Address:
Police Department
1 Municipal Plaza
1st Floor
Bloomfield, NJ 07003

Obtain a license for your dog or cat from the Municipal Clerk's Office.

Address:
Town Hall
1 Municipal Plaza
Room 214
Bloomfield, NJ 07003

Go to the Health Department to get a copy of your Marriage or Civil Union Certificate.

Address:
Town Hall
1 Municipal Plaza
Room 111
Bloomfield, NJ 07003

Contact Essex County Park System at 973-268-3500 for information on Brookdale Park concerts.

To obtain information about a car towing license, visit the Clerk's office.

Address:
Town Hall
1 Municipal Plaza
Room 214
Bloomfield, NJ 07003

Phone:
973-680-4014

Contact the Clerk's Office to get information about limousine/taxi driver licensing.

Address:
Town Hall
1 Municipal Plaza
Room 214
Bloomfield, NJ 07003

Phone:
973-680-4015

Monday through Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm and Wednesday night from 6:00pm - 8:30pm. We care closed on municipal holidays.

The Dial-A-Ride program is a free transportation service that is available to all senior citizens over the age of 60, or a person with a disability or handicap. You must be a Bloomfield resident. Eligible residents can schedule rides by calling (973)566-7194 during regular business hours. We take appointments up to one month in advance, but it is on a  first come, first served basis. This is a curb to curb service that picks up residents and takes them to any destination throughout Essex County.

Yes! The Civic Center is open to residents and non-residents for social gatherings and parties on Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00pm - 10:00pm.

• Resident Rate: $45/hr
  Non-Resident Rate: $65/hr
• A minimum of 3 hours must be requested. (1 extra hour is offered for free for set-up)
• A $150 cash deposit, separate from the room rental fee, is due 2 weeks after requesting the space. (The deposit will be held until after the event in case of damage)
• Absolutely no ALCOHOL, GLITTER, CONFETTI or SILLY STRING is allowed.
• The room must be left in the condition it was found.

The Bloomfield Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs Department is housed inside the Civic Center, 84 Broad St.   We are open Monday through Friday 8:30AM to 4:30PM and Wednesday nights from 6:00 – 8:30PM.  Our main number is 973-743-9074.  Our main email is recreation@bloomfieldtwpnj.com  

Yes.  We have an elevator located in the back of the Civic Center accessed by the State St Parking Lot.   Our 1^st floor bathrooms are ADA compliant and handicapped assessable. There are handicapped parking spots located in the State St lot.

Yes.  There are metered parking spots around the Civic Center and in the State Street Parking Lot.  Metered parking is enforced Monday – Saturday 8:00AM to 6PM. 

Yes, township organizations can use the Civic Center to hold their monthly or bi-monthly meetings. Room availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Organization Request Forms can be found on our website and should be submitted to Recreation Leader, Frank Volante.

If you are a business looking to rent out the Civic Center for an event or activity please call Recreation Director Michael Sceurman at 973-743-9074.  We do not allow applicants to conduct regular business activities at the Civic Center.

Yes! The Civic Center is open to residents, and non-residents, for social gatherings and parties on Saturdays from 2:00pm – 10:00pm, and Sundays from 1:00pm – 10:00pm.

A minimum of 3 hours must be requested, and 1 extra hour is offered for free for set-up.

A $150 cash deposit, separate from the room rental fee, is due 2 weeks after requesting the space. (The deposit will be held until after the event in case of damage)

Absolutely no ALCOHOL, GLITTER, GLUE, CONFETTI, or SILLY STRING is allowed. 

The room must be left in the condition it was found. 

Resident Rate: $55.00 per hour   
 Out-of-Town Rate: $75.00 per hour 

Special Event Request Forms can be picked up at the Civic Center or downloaded on our website.   Completed applications should be submitted to Recreation Leader, Frank Volante.

The Recreation Department offers a wide range of activities for adults. Apart from our special events, we host seasonal fitness programs such as: Yoga, Medication, Fitness Bootcamp, Zumba, Pilates, Tai Chi.  We offer Sign Language, Language, Calligraphy, Art Classes, and Ball Room Dancing.   We also offer Men’s Open Gym Basketball and Co-Ed Pickle Ball in the winter.   

In addition to the several programs and events open to all ages, the Recreation Department offers Senior Exercise twice a week, Zumba Gold twice a week, and Tai Chi for seniors looking to stay active. We also have a Senior Club that meets monthly. For more information on senior activities please call Neyden Kinch-Sousa at 973-743-9074.  

We do offer several high school aged programs, but we do not want to directly compete with all the extracurricular programs Bloomfield High School currently offers. We do offer a boys Intramural Basketball League for those who do not make the high school team. Several of our programs are geared for ages 13 and up!  If you have an idea or suggestion for a program geared towards high school students please send you suggestion to recreation@bloomfieldtwpnj.com.    

For more information on high school activities please click here to be redirected to the Bloomfield High School’s website https://bhs.bloomfield.k12.nj.us/ 

To be up to date on our programs and events you can: 

1. Sign up for the Bloomfield Ebuzz by visiting the Township website 
2. Periodically visit our Recreation Website
3. Follow us on Facebook
4. You can also register on CommunityPass and receive emails with information on programs and registration dates.

Or you could always stop in the Civic Center and talk to one of our staff members

If you would like to suggest a new program/event, please email recreation@bloomfieldtwpnj.com. We will email you a Program Proposal Form that you could fill out and submit back to us for review. Many of our current programs have been suggested by residents just like you!  

Most of the seasonal programs administered by the Bloomfield Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs Department require pre-registration.  You can find our Community Pass Registration portal on our website, www.bloomfieldrecreation.org.  

Our goal is to provide quality programming at affordable prices for our residents. Contributing factors for pricing are payroll for instructors, equipment costs and any other administrative costs associated with that program. 

You can call our weather update number at 973-743-7593, visit our Facebook page and/or you will receive and email from a staff member who administers that event or program.

If you no longer wish to be enrolled in a program, please notify a Bloomfield Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs Department staff member via recreation@bloomfieldtwpnj.com or 973-743-9074. 

• Option #1 – Prior to the first advertised start date, you can receive a 50% refund OR a full credit to your Community Pass family page.  This credit will equal the amount you paid at the time of registration.  This credit can be used for any family member, for any program or event with a registration fee.   There is no expiration date.   However once a credit has been applied, there will be no future refunds.
• Option #2 – On or after the advertised start date, there will be no refunds however a 50% credit of the original registration fee can be applied to your Community Pass family page. 

If you notify a staff member after the program has ended there will be no refunds or credits issued.   

Refunds are issued via the Township’s purchase order system.   A new vendor form must be filled out and submitted to our staff member in order to start the purchase order process.  

A $25 fee will be applied for all returned checks.   This fee must be paid in addition to the original program fee prior to participating in the program.  

We run a wide variety of transportation services for the township.    Please click here https://www.bloomfieldtwpnj.com/223/Transportation to be redirected to the transportation page where you can find out more information on our transportation services

The Dial-A-Ride Program is a free transportation service that is available to all senior citizens over the age of 60 and/or a person living with a disability or handicap.  You must be a Bloomfield resident to be eligible.   Eligible residents can schedule rides by calling 973-566-7194 during regular business hours. We take appointments up to one month in advance, but the service is first come, first serve.   Rides are predominately for medical purposes but also include transportation to the barber/beauty shop, visiting sick relatives, gravesites, supermarkets, local shops as well as to volunteer jobs and recreational activities.  This is a “curb to curb” service that picks up residents and takes them to any destination throughout Essex County.

Permit applications for Bloomfield Municipal Parks are available at the Bloomfield Civic Center, 84 Broad Street during normal business hours, or you can visit online at https://www.bloomfieldtwpnj.com/213/Facilities.  All park permit applications should be emailed to recreation@bloomfieldtwpnj.com. 

Brookdale Park and Watsessing Park is overseen by the Essex County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs Department.     Their number is 973-268-3500.   

Brookdale Park is an Essex County Park and is not run by the Bloomfield Township Recreation Department. The phone number for the Essex County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs Department is 973-268-3500.

The Bloomfield Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs Department administers the sports programs for the middle school.  

• Fall - Girls’ Suburban Traveling Volleyball, Girls Intown Volleyball, Boys’ and Girls’ Cross Country Track.  
• Football & Cheerleading – Administered by William Foley Football League www.bloomfieldjrbengals.com.  
• Soccer – Administered by Bloomfield Soccer Club www.bloomfieldsoccer.us
• Winter- Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball Suburban Traveling Basketball, Boys’ and Girls’ Intown Basketball, Boys’ and Girls’ Wrestling
• Spring- Girls’ Suburban Traveling Softball, Girls’ Peppermint Softball, Boys’ and Girls’ Track & Field.  
• Baseball – Administered by Little League and Bloomfield Baseball Association. 
• You can email the Bloomfield Little League at pekarbloomfield@gmail.com  
• You can email the Bloomfield Baseball Association for “Senior League Baseball” at  bloomfieldbaseballassociation@gmail.com 

Early registration is $55.00, once the deadline is up the cost is $60.00. If your child makes the Suburban team there will be an additional $15.00 fee. 

The Bloomfield Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs Department administers the evaluations/tryouts.  There are full time staff members, part time staff members, paid and volunteer coaches and independent evaluators who assess every players’ talent.  The top 10-14 players will be selected for the Suburban Traveling Team and the remaining players will be divided up into fair and competitive In-town teams.

Your child should make every attempt to participate in all of the scheduled evaluations/tryouts regardless of what level they want to play.   

All of the players that did not make the Suburban Traveling Team have been evaluated and will be divided into fair and competitive teams by the Bloomfield Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs administrative staff.  Teams can be comprised of 6^th, 7^th and 8^th graders

No.  If your son or daughter makes the Suburban Traveling Team they are not allowed to play in the In-town Basketball League.

Yes, your child can play both but there may be minor conflicts. We always encourage 6^th graders to view their Home and School Basketball Teams as their priority.  

For the Suburban Traveling Team there are approximately 2-4 practices a week during the start of the season.  Once games start there are usually 2 practices a week and 2 games a week.  Suburban practices are at Bloomfield High School.  Games can be played at the Middle School, High School and away games are played anywhere within Essex County.  Games and practices can be played Monday – Saturday.  For the In-town Basketball League, there are practices 1-2 times a week before the season starts.  Once the season starts, traditionally there is one game a week and potentially a practice.  Games and practices are usually 1 hour each and are held at the Bloomfield Middle School only.  Games and practices have always been played Monday – Friday at 6pm, 7pm or 8pm.  Occasionally a practice or game will be held on a Saturday but parents are informed well in advance.

For the Suburban Traveling Team playing time is at the sole discretion of the Head Coach.   Playing time is earned, not guaranteed.   In the In town Basketball League everyone must play a minimum amount of playing time (usually around a minimum of 12-15 minutes)

If your child makes the Suburban Basketball Team a full uniform (shorts and jersey) is issued to your child. They are required to take care of that uniform as per the uniform instructions. Uniforms must be returned at the end of the season.  For the In-town Basketball Team you will receive a T-Shirt for your team.  Players must wear athletic shorts or sweat pants.  All players must wear athletic sneakers.

No. Transportation is not provided. The Suburban Basketball Teams are encouraged to “carpool” if parents are willing to participate. Coaches are NOT allowed to transport any players (unless they are a family member).

Fans are permitted in home and away gyms for games only.  Practices are closed to the public, including parents.  Our fans represent our community. All fans must adhere to the fan code of conduct.   Failure to adhere to the fan code of conduct could result in removal from the gym.

You can call our weather update number at 973-743-7593, visit our Facebook page and/or you will receive and email from a staff member who administers that event or program.

To be a Suburban or In-town Team you must fill out a coaching application.  All applicants must be background checked and must possess a Rutgers SAFETY Certification (or equivalent).  For more information please call Recreation Leader, Dana Morton at 973-743-9074. 

Although these independent organizations work closely with the Recreation Department, they are separate entities and run as such. You can find their information below:

William Foley Football/Cheerleading 

James McDaniel – mcdist3@aol.com or visit www.bloomfieldjrbengals.com

Bloomfield Soccer Club

Barry Weiner –www.bloomfieldsoccer.us or visit http://bloomfield-soccer.com

Bloomfield Little League

Steve Pekar - pekarbloomfield@gmail.com  or visit their Facebook page Bloomfield Little League of New Jersey

Bloomfield Senior League Baseball

Jon Cipollina - bloomfieldbaseballassociation@gmail.com

Summer Camp registration usually starts on the 1^st Wednesday of May.  

Summer camp usually starts the first full week after school end and runs for 6 consecutive weeks.

The cost of summer camp is based on several factors including staffing costs, minimum wage costs, equipment, and other costs.   A full week of camp is usually around $150 - $175 per week.  We usually offer a multiple child discount.

NO - Children must attend their assigned camp location.

No.  Our registration costs go directly to staffing and supplies.

Cask, Check, Money Order or Credit Card

Summer Camps are usually held in Board of Education Elementary Schools.    Due to construction projects and school availability these locations often change and are not confirmed until the until the time of registration. 

• LUNCH, water bottle, sun protection, sneakers
• Sprinkler days will be announced in an email prior to each week of camp- campers can change into swimsuits, must keep shoes on but can change into water shoes

Cell phone use is prohibited during camp hours, particularly social media, texting, gaming, YouTube, etc.  If a family wants their child to bring their phone, it will remain turned off in a backpack.  Students must ask permission to use their phones under staff supervision.  If a parent needs to get in touch with their child, they will call the camp phone number.  This aligns with the school district’s policy.

Summer job applications are available for pick up at the Civic Center, 84 Broad Street, the first Monday in April and will be due in May. 

Current 9^th graders are considered for Summer Sports Clinic positions and current 10^th graders and older can be considered for summer Camp positions.

At this point, Bloomfield does not have a town pool.

Yes we have a program to assist residents with registrations fees.  Please visit our website http://bloomfieldtwpnj.com/1550/Financial-Assistance-Program for more information and/or to download the application.

The Housing Choice Voucher Program waiting list is currently closed. No new applications are being accepted at this time. When the waiting list is reopened, the dates, times and location to obtain applications will be advertised in the Township newspapers, the Star Ledger and other media.

Once you are on a waiting list, your wait time varies greatly depending on the office you applied through. Some offices place applicants on the waiting list by random lottery, and some by date and time the application was received. Because of the high demand of affordable housing, and comparatively low supply, it is not rare to be on a waiting list for several years. Generally, large metropolitan areas have long waiting lists, while lower populated areas have shorter waiting lists. Major factor is all based on federal funding availability.

Yes, you can apply anywhere in the country, and there is no limit on how many waiting lists you can apply to. However, duplicate applications for the same waiting list will likely be terminated. It is important to keep a record of all waiting lists you apply to. Not only is it good for your own general knowledge, but also if you need to update application information or find out your waiting list status. If the housing office gives you a confirmation number, keep that information as well.

If you are a current voucher holder and you are interested in porting into any PHA, you must first request to exercise the Portability option from your current Housing Authority. If found eligible to port, your Housing Authority must submit to the following paperwork to the appropriate Housing Agency you want to port out to. Simple Visit HUD.gov for PHA Contact List at: https://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts

Before any appointment is scheduled it is highly recommended calling Bloomfield Housing Agency for clarification on our guidelines and procedures; including payment standards update please call (973) 680-4189 any time after Time 8:30am.

Contact the State Department in Washington DC at (202) 955-0307. 

Your record must be issued by the local office of vital records where the birth occurred or the Office of Vital Statistics and Registry and must contain a raised seal. Some entities require the document to have been issued within the last two years. Complimentary copies issued by a hospital are not valid. 

Since there are many unique circumstances to amending records it is suggested you contact this office for further information or the State of New Jersey Office of Vital Statistics & Registry - Record Modification Unit toll-free at 1-866-649-8726 extension 581.

Yes, within the State of New Jersey certified copies are required to contain the raised seal of the issuing authority, either the local office of vital records or the Office of Vital Statistics and Registry.

Yes. In order to obtain this information you must purchase a certified copy of your record. The time will be included on the birth certificate only if the doctor recorded it. You should indicate on your request that you wish the certified copy to show the time of birth. 

Yes, but you will receive a certification rather than a certified copy. A certification is a non-certified document, which contains limited information and states it is for informational purposes only, not for identification or legal purposes.

Under our current system, births are filed within three weeks of the completion of the certificate by the hospital.

In order to request a delayed report of birth, you must first file an application requesting the birth certificate to ensure the record is not on file. If no record is found, you will receive a No Record statement, which must be returned with a letter of request to place a delayed report of birth on file. You will receive a questionnaire to complete so that a more detailed search can be completed. You will also need to provide documentary proof that the birth took place. Documentary proof will be reviewed and a determination made. Please contact the Record Modification unit toll-free at 1-866-649-8726 extension 581 for further information.

The application must be filed in the New Jersey municipality in which either applicant resides and the license is valid throughout the State. If neither applicant is a New Jersey resident, the application must be filed in the municipality where the ceremony will occur and the license is valid ONLY in the issuing municipality.

No. Domestic partners who wish to enter into a civil union with the same partner do not need to terminate their domestic partnership.  Once they have entered into the civil union, their domestic partnership automatically terminates, if it was originally registered in New Jersey.  If it was registered outside New Jersey, the laws of that state would determine the validity of the domestic partnership following the civil union.

Yes. If the domestic partnership with a different partner was not legally terminated, or was not terminated by the death of the previous partner, you must terminate the domestic partnership before entering into a civil union with someone else.

If your civil union meets the requirements of the state in which you registered, then it is recognized by the State of New Jersey.

No. You are not required to enter into a civil union in New Jersey. If your civil union or same-sex marriage meets the requirements of the state or country in which you registered, then it is recognized by the State of New Jersey as a civil union. However, if you wish, you may also elect to enter into a civil union in New Jersey.  In that case, you would file for a Reaffirmation of Civil Union License in New Jersey.

Yes. There is a 72-hour waiting period before the license can be issued. The waiting period begins once the application has been filed by one or both applicants.  A Superior Court judge can waive all or part of the 72-hour waiting period.

No. For a Reaffirmation of Civil Union License, there is no waiting period, the license can be issued immediately after the complete application has been filed.

Yes. It is recommended you check the Internet website for the particular Internet ministry to verify that their ministers are authorized to perform civil union ceremonies.

 Public officials who are authorized to perform marriages are authorized to perform civil unions.  Public officials may choose whether or not to exercise this authority.  However, if a public official agrees to perform marriages, he or she must agree to perform civil unions.  If an official elects not to perform civil unions, he or she cannot perform marriages either. Public officials do have the right to exercise their authority only for residents of their municipality.

No. Members of the clergy are not covered by the Law Against Discrimination and have the right to decline to perform civil unions.

Yes. The Registrar is required by law to accept for filing an application for a civil union license so long as the application is provided to the Registrar of the municipality in which either of the applicant’s reside or, if out of State residents, in the municipality in which the ceremony will occur.

Yes. However, please note that the federal government does not recognize civil unions.  You may choose to consult an attorney to legally establish a name change.

Yes. You can create or edit vows.  In your vows, you may refer to each other using any terms you prefer, including wife, spouse, lover, or life mate, and you may refer to the ceremony as a marriage.  However, when the ceremony is completed, you are legally entered into a civil union and considered a civil union couple.

No, you must contact the state or country in which the death occurred.

Request a long form copy of the death certificate, which will have the burial location. Then you can contact that entity for more information.

Yes. Your domestic partnership is still valid as it was entered into under the law in place at the time. However, you continue to have only the rights afforded to domestic partners and not the full rights of married couples as are given to civil union couples.

No. There is no basis to recognize the assumption of the partner’s last name. A legal name change must be filed with the courts and an original copy of the final judgment presented to the Office of Vital Statistics and Registry.

Yes. As of February 19, 2007, domestic partnerships can only be established by couples 62 years of age or older, regardless of whether they are a same-sex or opposite-sex couple.

No. Domestic partners who wish to enter into a civil union with the same person do not need to terminate their domestic partnership. Once they have entered into the civil union, their domestic partnership will automatically terminate if it was registered in New Jersey. If it was registered outside New Jersey, the laws of that state would determine the validity of the domestic partnership following the civil union.

Yes. If the domestic partnership with a different partner was not legally terminated, or was not terminated by the death of the previous partner, you must terminate the domestic partnership before entering into a civil union with someone else.

Information regarding benefits can be found at the https://nj.gov/treasury/pensions/.

An individual who has filed a complete application for a copy of a vital record can authorize another person to pick up the record on his or her behalf. To do so, the applicant should sign a notarized letter, stating the name of the person listed on the vital record and the name of the individual who is picking up the record. The individual picking up the record must present this letter along with an acceptable form of identification. 

An ex-spouse can only obtain birth or death records if the records are being obtained on behalf of a minor child that was the product of the marriage. Documentary proof of the minor child and the need for the certificate must be provided. 

Stepparents can only obtain a certified copy of the birth certificate of a stepchild with the authorization of the biological parent, unless the stepparent has adopted the child or has been granted custody of the child. 

An attorney can only obtain records on behalf of a client. The attorney must show proof of being the legal representative of the client and may only obtain the same type of copy of a vital record that the client is eligible to receive. An attorney is not granted certified copies of vital records solely on the basis of being an attorney. 

Yes. However, if the foreign country is a member of the Hague Treaty, the record must also contain an Apostille Seal. You can contact the consulate of that country to determine if it is a member of the Hague Treaty or obtain other specific requirements. 

Certified copies of Vital Records issued by a local Registrar CANNOT be used to obtain an Apostille Seal. You must purchase a copy of your vital record from the State of New Jersey Office of Vital Statistics and Registry and indicate on your application that it is needed for Apostille Seal. You will receive a certified copy which you must forward to the Department of Treasury requesting an Apostille Seal. 

A No Match statement means the information you provided does not exactly match a record on file. Verify the information you provided. Submit a new application for the record with the corrected information. Your new application must include the required identification and fees. 

A No Record statement means that there is no record on file that corresponds to the information you provided. Verify the information you provided. If the information you originally gave is correct, you can request to file a delayed report be placed on file. More information on delayed reports of birth can be found under the Birth Records portion of the FAQ’s, more information on delayed reports of marriage can be found under the Marriage Records portion of the FAQ’s.

No. Vital records require the raised seal of the local office of vital records or the Office of Vital Statistics and Registry seal to be considered valid. It is the administrative policy of the State Registrar that records are not faxed for any reason.

In order to be processed your application must contain all required items. To find the required information, you may wish to check census records, newspaper archives at the local library, the federal social security death index or hire an investigator. If after exhausting all alternatives you are still unable to supply the required items you will need to obtain a court order directing the Office of Vital Statistics and Registry to issue the copy.

No.

No. Just as with opposite-sex couples, so long as your out-of-state marriage is consistent with the laws and public policy of New Jersey, your marriage is valid and recognized in this State and you will not need to enter into a New Jersey marriage. 

No. You must contact the state or country in which you were married. 

Each judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, each judge of the federal district court, United States magistrate, judge of a municipal court, judge of the Superior Court, judge of a tax court, retired judge of the Superior Court or Tax Court, or judge of the Superior Court or Tax Court, the former County Court, the former County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, or the former County District Court who has resigned in good standing, surrogate of any county, county clerk and any mayor or former mayor not currently serving on the municipal governing body or the deputy mayor when authorized by the mayor, or chairman of any township committee or village president of this State, and every minister of every religion, are hereby authorized to solemnize marriages or civil unions between such persons as may lawfully enter into the matrimonial relation or civil union; and every religious society, institution or organization in this State may join together in marriage or civil union such persons according to the rules and customs of the society, institution or organization. A civil celebrant shall be authorized to solemnize marriages or civil unions if certified by the Secretary of State.

Yes. It is recommended you check the Internet website for the particular Internet ministry to verify that their ministers are authorized to perform marriage ceremonies.

 No. Just as with opposite-sex couples, so long as your out-of-state marriage is consistent with the laws and public policy of New Jersey, your marriage is valid and recognized in this State and you will not need to enter into a New Jersey marriage.

No. Your domestic partnership will remain intact and will still be on file with the local municipality where the ceremony was performed or the Office of Vital Statistics and Registry after you enter into marriage with your domestic partner.

You will not have to dissolve your civil union in order to enter into marriage so long as you are marrying your current civil union partner.  However, if you wish to marry someone other than your civil union partner, then you must have your civil union dissolved before you can enter into marriage with someone else. 

Civil unions remain valid.  Your civil union will remain intact and will still be on file with the local municipality where the ceremony was performed or the Office of Vital Statistics and Registry after you enter into marriage with your civil union partner.

Civil Unions will not automatically convert to marriages. Civil unions remain valid and couples may continue to enter into civil unions if those so choose.  A civil union couple will have to apply for and receive a marriage license and thereafter engage in a marriage ceremony in order to receive a marriage certificate.

Yes. The Civil Union Act remains in full force and effect.

The couple would be entering into a remarriage. Any couple married outside of the State that wishes to renew their marriage commitment in New Jersey may do so by applying for and receiving a remarriage license and thereafter engage in a remarriage ceremony, as set forth at N.J.S.A. 37:1-7. The 72 hour waiting period does not apply to remarriages. 

Yes. All individuals, including those already in a civil union, who apply for marriage licenses must comply with the 72 hour waiting period unless a New Jersey Superior Court Judge enters an order waiving the wait period due to emergency circumstances.

Couples who are currently in a civil union and have not entered in a valid marriage outside of this State must apply for a marriage license, not a remarriage license, and must wait 72 hours before receiving their marriage license.

OPRA is a State statue that replaces the old “Right to Know Law” which governs the public’s access to government records in New Jersey. OPRA was enacted to give the public greater access to records maintained by public agencies in New Jersey. OPRA is designed to balance public interest in government records while respecting personal privacy.

A public record is one that is required by law to be kept to serve as evidence of something written, said, or done by a public officer authorized to perform that function. It can be any paper, written or printed book, document, drawing, map, plan, photograph, microfilm, data processed or image processed document, information stored or maintained electronically or by sound-recording or in a similar device.

Anyone may file an OPRA request and may do so anonymously. OPRA does not prohibit outside citizens from filing requests and while space for contact information is provided, it is not required to submit an OPRA request.

A request for access to a government record must be in writing and hand-delivered, mailed, transmitted electronically, or otherwise conveyed to the appropriate custodian. OPRA requests CANNOT be made over the telephone. The municipal clerk’s office has request forms available or they can be found online at https://www.bloomfieldtwpnj.com/FormCenter/Municipal-Clerk-10/OPEN-PUBLIC-Request-for-Public-Records-55

The municipality will charge for the cost of printed matter if a physical copy is requested. The standard price for these expenses will be $0.05 per letter size page or smaller, $0.07 per legal size page or larger, and $1.00 for video or audio that must be downloaded onto a CD disk. It is preferred that documents be sent via E-mail but audio and videos cannot be sent via E-mail. The preferred method of payment (if any) is check or money order.

Under the OPRA law, records custodians have seven business days starting the day after an OPRA request is filed to provide the requested record.

It is important to remember that OPRA requests are requests for documents NOT information. It is necessary to have a specific government record in mind when filing a request. If a request is overly broad or does not specifically name identifiable records, a custodian may deny access. While a custodian may reach out for clarification, it is worth noting that the request may not be fulfilled as quickly. “Any and all records regarding ____” is NOT a sufficient OPRA request. The requestor should identify the specific type of document, the department it pertains to, and the dates of the requested documents.

The answers to the following questions were provided by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs as a resource and do not, and are not intended to, constitute legal advice.

The law applies to single-family, two-family, and multiple rental dwellings that were built before 1978.

The law takes effect on July 22, 2022, and the first inspection is required within two years of the effective date or upon tenant turnover. This means that the initial inspection must occur by July 22, 2024 at the latest

Multiple rental dwellings are subject to the law unless the multiple dwelling has been registered with the Department for at least ten years and has no outstanding paint violations from the most recent cyclical inspection performed by the Bureau of Housing Inspection.

The law applies to single-, two-family, and multiple rental dwellings that were built before 1978. It does not apply to home sales.

If the renovation was done that resulted in lead-free certificate then it is exempt. If there is not a lead-free certification then yes, the law applies. This is because, even if you take a building down to the studs, or even down to the foundation, there could still be lead based paint in the framing or foundation.

Yes, if the unit is not otherwise exempt, is rented, and built pre-1978 are subject to the law.

Yes, unless otherwise exempt, this applies to any rental dwelling units that are built pre-1978.

If the inspection results in a lead-safe certification, that certification is valid for two years, and inspections are not required during the valid certification period.

If there is any portion of the dwelling that is rented, then the law applies.

Municipalities will designate an agency that is responsible for inspections.

If the property is certified lead-free, no further inspection will be required. If it is designated as lead-safe, the certification is valid for two years. Inspections are required to occur every three years.

The Department of Community Affairs has information about this law available online at https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/codes/resources/leadpaint.html

The forthcoming regulations specify the necessary timeframe to initiate remediation.

Remediation is required and must be performed by certified individuals in accordance with all applicable Federal and State regulations. There are two options for remediation: interim controls are measures designed to temporarily reduce exposure (paint stabilization, making surfaces smooth and cleanable, correcting dust-generating conditions); abatement (paint removal, building component replacement, enclosure) is the complete removal of lead-based paint from a dwelling, and can be more appropriate where interim controls are unlikely to be effective in reducing exposures to lead-based paint hazards. This is because abatement work ensures that any lead-based paint hazards are resolved within a dwelling.

Visual assessment: A visual assessment is an examination of all painted building components for deteriorated paint or visible surface dust, debris, or residue. The inspector should also look for paint chips or dust from painting activities that were not cleaned up and paint residue on floors.

Dust wipe sampling: Dust wipe sampling is collected by wiping a representative surface, including floors (both carpeted and uncarpeted), interior windowsills, and other similar surfaces, and testing in accordance with a method approved by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These samples must be undertaken properly to ensure that results are accurate.

A visual inspection is performed by visually assessing all painted components within a structure for deteriorated paint.

Dust wipe sampling is undertaken by wiping horizontal surfaces within the structure in accordance with HUD protocols and having those wipes tested at approved laboratories.

If a rental is declared lead-free as opposed to lead safe, when will I be required to have another inspection?

Lead-safe certifications expire because they are based on either visual assessments or the results of a dust wipe sampling; over time, circumstances can change (paint can deteriorate, leaded dust can become present). Lead-free certifications mean that abatement work has been completed and any lead-based paint hazards have been resolved. As such, further periodic lead-based paint inspections are not required for dwellings that have received a lead-free certification.

The owner of the property will receive the test results, as well as the municipality.

When a lead-based paint hazard is not found, a lead-safe certification is issued to the owner and municipality; when a lead-based paint hazard is found, then the owner shall be notified of the hazard and must remediate it.

If remediation is performed via interim controls, the municipality or lead evaluation contractor will issue the lead-safe certification. If remediation is performed via abatement, then the lead abatement contractor issues a lead-free certification, which is followed by an approval from the municipality.

The initial inspection must occur upon tenant turnover or by July 22, 2024, whichever is sooner. Thereafter, inspections shall occur every 3 years, or upon tenant turnover, whichever is sooner. Tenant turnover inspections are not required if there is a valid lead-safe certification (valid for two years). The method of inspection, whether visual assessment or dust wipe sampling, depends on the percentage of children under the age of six with an elevated blood lead level.

Lead-safe, pursuant to this law, means that there are no lead-based paint hazards as the result of an inspection; however, this does not mean that there is no lead-based paint present in the dwelling. Lead-safe certifications are valid for two years.

Lead-free means that, either after an abatement or upon a lead inspection/risk assessment (which does not occur under this law), there is no lead-based paint present in the dwelling unit. Lead-free certifications do not have an expiration date.

No, if the unit is certified lead-free the unit does not need to be inspected.

There are interim controls which are measures designed to temporarily reduce human exposure to lead-based paint hazards. In certain cases, interim controls are unlikely to be effective. In those situations, abatement, which permanently removes lead from a dwelling, is more appropriate in addressing lead-based paint hazards.

Within 60 days after the initial inspection.

Yes

The remediation technique must follow what is required by the law depending on the situation. But yes, there are certain types of encapsulates that are acceptable; however, if anything is drilled, nailed, etc. into an encapsulated wall, this may void the lead-free certification.

If a property has to be fully remediated for lead paint, does the landlord have to pay to move the tenant to another location during the remediation? Can a tenant move in while the remediation or encapsulation is taking place?

If any relocation is required during the process of remediation, that relocation must follow the requirements set forth in the Relocation Assistance and Eviction regulations,

N.J.A.C. 5:11. Whether a tenant can move in during the process of remediation would be a determination made based on the scope of work.

In a municipality with a permanent local agency for the purpose of conducting inspections and enforcing regulations, the municipality is responsible for conducting the inspection. If the municipality does not have such an agency, the municipality needs to retain a lead evaluation contractor. Municipalities are encouraged to work collaboratively via the use of shared services agreements to provide inspection staff on an as needed basis to address the inspection requirements set forth under the Act. The landlord/owner may choose a contractor if they want. The municipality will require a fee that covers the cost of inspection, and an additional $20 will go into the Lead Hazard Control Assistance Fund.

Yes, also included on our website https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/codes/publications/pdf_lead/ld_eval_contrs.pdf

Costs vary greatly depending on both the method of inspection and the method of remediation; visual assessments will depend on the cost of labor and will be less expensive than dust wipe sampling, which will depend on the cost of labor, supplies, and testing; dust wipes can be in the range of $350-400, depending on those factors. Additionally, while abatements can range in cost from $15,000-$30,000, interim controls are much less costly, since they intend to reduce exposure to lead rather than eliminate it. Please note that these cost projections are subject to market changes.