Nutley issues reminder to residents about rules for property maintenance

Nutley Department of Revenue and Finance Commissioner Thomas J. Evans recently put out a notice encouraging residents to be aware of the township's codes and zoning laws, particularly in regard to yard and property maintenance.

Evans said the Township Code Book is available as a reference tool on the Nutley website at nutleynj.org.

“We want to encourage residents to use

NUTLEY — A low-cost driver safety class that could lead to an insurance discount is being offered at the Nutley Amvets Building at 184 Park Ave. on Wednesday, June 7.

The AARP Smart Driver course teaches valuable defensive driving strategies and provides a refresher of the rules of the road, according to a press release from the township, which said the class will be taught by a trained AARP Driver Safety volunteer.

Since 1979, the course has helped more than 20 million drivers learn researchbased tips to adapt their driving to compensate for physical and cognitive changes that may occur with aging, the release said.

The course has also been recently updated with new content to ensure New Jersey drivers are equipped with the most up-to-date information for driving in the state. Drivers may also qualify for a multi-year automobile insurance discount after completing the course, and are encouraged to contact their auto insurance agent for details.

The one-day class begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m. There will be a 30-minute break for lunch at noon; attendees should bring lunch and a beverage to the class. Attendees are asked to arrive no later than 8:45 a.m.

The fee for the course is $20 for AARP members, and $25 for non-members. Make checks payable to AARP. Members will need to write their membership number on the check, and bring their membership card to the class.

Only exact cash will be accepted at the door. Attendees must bring their driver's license to class, and must sign a COVID waiver form in order to take the class. Masks are optional.

Pre-registration is necessary and class size is limited. Course is open to all drivers, regardless of age. To register, please contact the Nutley Department of Public Affairs at 973-284-4976.

this site which can be accessed any time of day or night,” Evans said.

Property maintenance is an issue that comes up most often, according to David Berry of the Code Enforcement Department.

All property owners are responsible for keeping their property in good order, to the extent that it does not detract from or become an eyesore within the neighborhood. Residents should cut their grass regularly and keep it free of leaves, branches, and other debris, Evans said.

Retaining walls, fences and sheds must be kept structurally sound and free from defects and damage. Residents are responsible for maintaining the area of grass within 10 feet of the street, in front of their property or, if it is a corner property, on the front and side of their property.

Garage sales are popular during this time of year. The Township ordinance allows a property owner to host one garage sale per year. Permits are $10. Posting of garage sale signs on telephone poles or trees is not allowed. Directional signs are allowed, but cannot be located in the street or on a public right-of-way. All signage must be removed by the end of the day.

The commissioner also said that most construction and exterior projects require a zoning permit and inspection. This includes fences, retaining walls, decks, patios, driveways, pools/replacement pools, and sheds. It is recommended that residents contact the code enforcement department to ensure they receive correct information on permit requirements.

“We have experienced an increasing trend where attics, basements/cellars and garages are being converted into a prohibited living space, such as a bedroom or a dwelling unit,” Berry said. “Generally, there are multiple zoning, construction code and life safety issues associated with converting these areas into a living space. As such, they are generally prohibited under our code. If a resident is considering converting these areas into livable space, they should contact us before they attempt to make any alterations. Our office would be more than happy to help.”

Finally, there has been an increase in interest by some residents in operating parts of their homes and yards or investment property as Air BnBs or temporary rentals. These temporary rental activities are strictly prohibited.