Show All Answers

1. When are inspections performed?

Inspections are performed Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday during the hours of 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays have been dedicated to performing plan reviews and permit processing. At least 24 hours notice is required for the scheduling inspections.

2. What type of work requires a permit?

A permit is required for new construction or remodeling work and home additions, interior or exterior renovations, mechanical equipment replacements, electrical and plumbing work. A few examples of work that require a permit are as follows: construction of a new home or room addition or garage, construction of a deck, raised patio with steps and finishing your basement. Certain routine home maintenance projects do not require a permit or notification. If you are planning a project, contact the Building Division to determine if permits are needed.

3. Is a contractors license required in Plainsboro Township?

Electrical and Plumbing contractors must be licensed with the State of New Jersey. General contractors must hold a valid contractors registration certification for residential work.

4. How do I know if the work I'm performing will affect my taxes?

The Building Division is not responsible for the assessment of taxes. This information is determined by the Tax Assessor’s office.

5. Who is responsible for payment of the permit?

The responsibility for payment of a permit is a contractual agreement between the contractor and homeowner.

6. How do I know what inspections are required for my work?

The type of inspections required is determined by the scope of work that you will be performing. Inspections that are needed will be explained at the time the permit is issued.

7. As a homeowner, can I perform my own work or do I have to hire a contractor?

In order for a homeowner to perform their own work, they must be currently residing in their single family dwelling. If someone else is performing the work, they must be licensed with the State of New Jersey. A general contractor must have a New Jersey Home Improvement Contractor license to perform work on residential properties.

8. How much does a permit cost?

The cost of a permit depends on many factors, please contact the Building Division for further assistance. You may call 609-799-0909, ext. 1201 or visit the Building Division page.

9. How do I obtain an application for a permit?

A permit application can be obtained by contacting the Building Division. The proposed scope of work will determine whether or not drawn plans are required and which applications must be submitted for review. All permit applications are State forms and must be filled out in its entirety. If a contractor has been hired to perform this work their information, including current license number must also be included.

10. What is a construction permit?

A construction permit is a legal document required by the Uniform Construction Code State of New Jersey that authorizes the owner or contractor to undertake a building project. Obtaining such a permit is required for both residential and commercial projects.

Show All Answers

1. What do I do if I have answered false to a prescreening question regarding my incident?

If any of your answers to the pre-screening criteria statements regarding your incident are not true, you need to call 9-1-1 if it is an emergency or crime in progress or call the Plainsboro Police Department at 609-799-2333 for all other non-emergencies. A police officer must to take the report.

2. What if my incident happened in another city? Can I file a report using this online police citizen reporting system?

No, if a non-emergent incident took place outside of Plainsboro Township, please call the appropriate police department for that city. If you don’t know the correct agency or if you can’t find their phone number, contact the Plainsboro Police Department at 609-799-2333 for assistance. For all emergencies or crimes in progress, call 911.

3. What is a known suspect?

A known suspect is when you or someone else knows the person or where to find the person who committed the crime or the license plate number of the vehicle the suspect(s) were in or using.

4. My incident type is not listed as an acceptable online report type, can I file my report online using another incident type?

No, an incident type that does not meet the criteria or is not listed as an acceptable online report type will be rejected, and a police officer will need to take the report.

5. When I file my report online, will my report be reviewed immediately?

No, online generated reports will only be reviewed Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. A report that requires immediate police involvement must be reported by calling 911 if it is an emergency or crime in progress or call the Plainsboro Police Department at 609-799-2333 for all other non-emergencies.

6. Is filing a fictitious report or report with false information a crime?

Yes, and any person or persons found to be providing false information to this agency using the citizens online reporting system may be charged and prosecuted under New Jersey S. 2C:28-4.

7. Upon completion of my online report, will an officer contact me regarding my report?

At a minimum, all reports will be reviewed and a return email will be generated notifying you of either the acceptance or rejection of the report. An officer may contact you for additional information or for clarification of the report if necessary.

8. If I have questions regarding the citizen online reporting system or about a report that I have already generated online, who should I contact?

All questions or concerns regarding the citizen online reporting system can be forwarded to the Plainsboro Police Department at 609-799-2333.

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a permit to put up a tent?

If the tent is greater than 900 square feet or more than 30 feet in any dimension, a permit must be obtained from the Fire Official.

2. I received a fire code violation and do not understand the violations. Who can I call?

The name of the inspector is on the front sheet of the violation paperwork. Call our office at 609-799-0909, ext. 2545 and ask to speak with the inspector.

3. The Inspector came at a busy time. Can I request a convenient time for him/her to return?

Yes. Explain to the inspector that it is not a good time to conduct the inspection and come to a mutually agreeable time that will work for everyone.

4. What can I expect from a fire inspection?

The inspector will need access to the entire property. A representative may be requested to accompany the inspector to provide access to locked areas. When violations are found, they will be noted and explained. Adequate time will be given to correct the violations before another inspection occurs.

5. How often are commercial fire inspections performed?

Each commercial building is inspected at least once during the calendar year.

Show All Answers

1. How can I obtain a copy of a birth, death, or marriage record?

Certified copies of these vital records can be obtained in person from 8:30am to 3:30pm, Monday through Friday or ordered via US Mail. The fee is $15.00 per copy and $25.00 for any correction to the record. In person fees are payable by cash, credit or money order. Mail in request are only by money order made payable to Plainsboro Township. Please fill out the required request form and submit with acceptable identification. Please refer to our Township Clerk page for application forms.

2. How do I register for a recreation program?

Our online registration service makes program registration easy and provides an opportunity to keep you informed with the latest information about your favorite programs and events. To apply, visit our Registration page.

3. How do I obtain an application for a permit?

A permit application can be obtained by contacting the Building Division. The proposed scope of work will determine whether or not drawn plans are required and which applications must be submitted for review. All permit applications are State forms and must be filled out in its entirety. If a contractor has been hired to perform this work their information, including current license number must also be included.

4. When are taxes due?

Taxes are due on the 1st of February, May, August and November. There is a 10 day grace period.

5. When is the next bulk waste event?

Please refer to our Bulk Waste Drop-Off page.

Show All Answers

1. When do I need a Housing inspection?

A housing inspection is required for the sale or rental of any residential dwelling unit. Additionally, rental properties are required to have an inspection whenever there is a change of occupancy.

2. What is the waiting period for an inspection?

Due to high seasonal volume the current waiting period for an inspection is approximately 1 month.

3. I am having problems with my landlord, can you help?

The Housing Division is able to assist you in matters concerning the maintenance and safety of your residence. This would include electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, and safety violations as well public health issues such as mold and rodent infestation.

4. Can the Housing Division help me with my rent increase?

No, this is a matter to be handled between landlord and tenant. To understand your rights as a tenant, please read the Truth in Renting Guide (PDF).

5. Can the Housing Division help me with my security deposit?

No, this is a legal matter between landlord and tenant. However, there are laws regarding security deposits enforced by the State of New Jersey, to learn more please read the Truth in Renting Guide (PDF).

6. How long is a Housing Certificate of Occupancy valid for?

A Housing Certificate of Occupancy is valid for 90 days.

7. Can the inspector gain access to my property with a lock box?

No, we require someone (18 years of age or older) to be present at the time of inspection.

8. What do the inspectors look for?

The Plainsboro Housing code was adopted to establish reasonable standards for the health and safety of the occupants and the general public. For the guidelines of an inspection, visit the Housing Division page.

Show All Answers

1. If I already applied previously, do I need to submit a new application each time a position is offered?

Yes. All recruitment materials including applications are kept together in a file for 3 years in accordance with retention policies. When a new position opens, a new file is established. Additionally, there may have been changes to your personal information or work history, salary, education, etc. that should be updated. Therefore we require a new application for each opening.

2. I applied for a job several weeks ago and I still haven't heard anything. What's going on?

The timing of hiring can be impacted by several factors including the number of positions being recruited at any given time, the volume of applications received, the workload of the department, or other unforeseen reasons.

3. Does the Human Resources office have listings of job openings with private employers in the Plainsboro area?

No, only Township positions are listed.

4. Where can I get an application?

You can download and print an application from the Employment Opportunities page on the website, pick one up in the Human Resources office, or call/email to have one mailed or emailed to you. You can learn more through the Human Resources page.

5. Do I have to live in Plainsboro Township in order to apply for a job?

No, positions are open to both residents and non-residents of Plainsboro. However, recent legislation requires that new hires must either reside in New Jersey or move to New Jersey within 1 year of appointment.

Show All Answers

1. When is my court date? Do I have to appear in court?

Check your ticket. If it is checked court required you must appear on the day that appears on the ticket. If you are not required to appear but would like to appear to contest your ticket please call 609-799-0863 (Option 2) to speak to a court representative to enter your not guilty plea. The court representative will give you a court date and you will receive a notice in the mail to confirm that date.

2. When is my payment due?

On or before the “notice to appear date” on your ticket; you can pay your ticket with a check or money order and we also take payments online. If you appear in court your payment is due the day the Judge takes care of your case, we accept Visa, Master Card, Discover, MAC, checks, money orders and cash. Quickly pay your ticket online.

3. How much is my fine?

Check the back of your ticket if your violation is not listed you can call the court office at 609-799-0863, option 2. If payable, you can also look on the internet enter your ticket information and it will tell you how much your ticket is, you can pay your ticket online.

4. How many points will I receive for my violation?

Please look at the quick link for New Jersey Motor Vehicle Point Schedule if you do not see your violation please call Department of Motor Vehicles at 609-292-7500, the court does not assess points.

5. Am I eligible for a public defender for my municipal court case?

Individuals must meet the following eligibility criteria for this service

1. The Judge must first determine if the defendant is charged with a crime of any other offense, including motor vehicle summons which can result in jail term or other consequence of magnitude. Consequence of magnitude is if at sentencing you would could possibly be sentenced to imprisonment, driver’s license suspension or a monetary sanction of greater than $800.00 by the court.
2. A finical questionnaire must be completed which ask for current employment status, salary, income and assets and then if you fall within the statewide eligibility guidelines to establish indigency. The finical questionnaire can be found on our website under Forms.

Show All Answers

1. What does "Fair Market Value" mean?

Market value is the price which a property would bring after a reasonable exposure to the market, where both a knowledgeable buyer and knowledgeable seller are willing to buy and sell, and are not acting under compulsion or duress. In other words a seller who was not forced to sell or a buyer who was not forced to buy such as in the case of estate, divorce, or foreclosure sales.

2. If I do not agree with my property assessment, can I file an appeal?

Yes, appeals can be filed with the Middlesex County Board of Taxation and they must be received by April 1st of each Tax Year. If your property is valued $1,000,000 or more you can file directly with the Tax Court of New Jersey.

3. Can I review my property assessment and how it was arrived at?

Yes, you can schedule an appointment with the Tax Assessor who will review with you, your property record card and sales of similar properties.

4. Can my assessment change if I haven't done anything to my property?

General economic conditions and other factors such as interest rates, inflation, supply and demand will influence the value of real estate. When property values change, either upward or downward at the same rate throughout the Township, the assessments would not change. However if 1 neighborhood increases or decreases faster in value than the remainder of the Township then assessments in that area can be adjusted to bring them back in line with the majority of the Township.

5. What will happen to my assessment if I improve my property?

Generally speaking, improvements that increase the value of a property will increase the assessment; following are some items that may increase the assessment of your property:
- Additions, kitchens and bath renovations
- Finished Basements, Sunrooms
- Fireplaces, Patios, Decks, Pools

Show All Answers

1. I just purchased my house, and never received a tax bill. What do I do?

The tax bill should have been provided to you at the closing. If not, contact the Office of the Tax Collector and a bill will be forwarded to you.

2. I received a tax bill but my mortgage company pays my taxes?

The township sends bills to both property owner and the mortgage company. Please complete the New Bank/Mortgage Company Information form, and forward to the Office of the Tax Collector. You can access the form online (PDF).

3. How do you determine compliance with the payment deadline?

Tax payments have been officially received on the date they are delivered to the Office of the Tax Collector. We do not recognize the postmark as the date of payment.

4. Do you accept duplicate tax bills and is there a charge?

Yes, we accept duplicate tax bills and there is a $5 charge.

5. Why did I not receive an end of year statement for taxes paid?

We do not send year end statements. Please use your tax bill for income tax filing purposes.

6. My mortgage company pays my taxes. Why do I get a delinquency notice?

The township sends delinquency notices to the property owner as well as the mortgage company.

7. What forms of payments are accepted?

The township accepts personal checks, cash as well as direct debit and credit card and e-check through the township website only. (fees apply) township website only (fees apply).

8. Will I receive reminders when taxes are due?

Along with your tax bill you receive yellow stickers to be placed on your calendar. You also have the option to sign up for email reminders on the township website under "Notify Me About" - Tax Bill Reminder calendar.

9. Will I receive quarterly tax bills?

No. The township sends 1 bill in the middle of the year with quarterly payment stubs.

10. When are taxes due?

Taxes are due on the 1st of February, May, August and November. There is a 10 day grace period.

Show All Answers

1. What is the program about?

The C.A.R.E.  initiative is a network of community stakeholders who will facilitate education, prevention and improve access to treatment and recovery support for those struggling with drug addiction. The program ensures help for those seeking assistance without fear of arrest or prosecution.

2. How do you plan on educating the community?

• Police led programs in schools such as DARE, #NEO
• Publicly Accessible Community Conversation Forums
• Handheld brochures/literature
• Webpage on Township Website and other forms of social media

3. How are you preventing addiction in the community?

Education – juvenile programs

Operation Take Back – safe and legal method for the public to dispose unwanted/unused/expired medication

Partnering with Pharmacy’s and Doctors on identifying fraudulent prescription requests consistent with criminal activity

Investigating crimes related to drug use

4. How are you getting people to treatment?

• Utilizing recovery advocates to place those suffering from addiction into a treatment center
•  Partnering with Princeton Medical Center at Plainsboro

5. Who are the recovery advocates of America?

Recovery Advocates of America is a local non-profit organization local to the area that provides addiction recovery services.

6. Who is involved with the program?

Community Addiction Recovery Effort (C.A.R.E.)  was designed by the Plainsboro Police Department at the request of the Plainsboro Township Committee.  The police, Mayor and Committee met with community leaders to discuss the need for such a program and how best to approach it.  Meetings were held with addiction recovery specialists, police officers and faith based organizations including the Princeton Alliance Church, First Presbyterian Church of Plainsboro, and the Queenship of Mary Church.  Other meetings were held with the Princeton Medical Center at Plainsboro, the West Windsor-Plainsboro School District, Recovery Advocates of America, and the Plainsboro Municipal Court Judge and Public Defender. 

7. What inspired the creation of the program?

The alarming reality of this widespread opioid epidemic has created an urgent need to work together as a community to reverse these trends.  According to the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 175 Americans die every day from drug overdoses.  

8. How will the program impact Plainsboro Residents?

The program will allow us to engage with the community and work together to combat the negative effects of drugs.

Show All Answers

1. What current development activity is going on in Plainsboro?

For information on development activity review the linked document. Contact the Planning and Zoning office with questions at (609) 799-0909 ext 1502.

Development Activity

2. Can I operate a business from my home?

Home based businesses in a residential dwelling are permitted subject to satisfying applicable zoning standards. These standards are intended to ensure such businesses do not negatively impact the residential character of neighborhoods. For additional information on planning and zoning matters call 609-799-0909, ext. 1502. The procedure for obtaining Township approval for home based businesses is described in linked page.
Home-Based Business

3. What rules apply to placing a storage shed on my residential property?

Residential storage sheds may be located in the side or rear yard areas of a residential lot, shall be located a minimum of 10 feet from side and rear property lines, shall not exceed a height of 15 feet or an area of 750 square feet. Like fences, sheds shall not be located within an easement area of a lot. In addition to the shed bulk restrictions in §101-13 of the Township Code, certain zone districts (R-85, R-90, and R-95) allow sheds to be as close as 5 feet to a side and rear property line. Some residential developments have more restrictive shed standards, including some that even prohibit sheds altogether. Sheds of 100 square feet or less in area, do not require a building permit, only zoning approval by Department of Planning and Zoning.

4. What is the zoning district classification and applicable regulations for my property?

Under Municipal Maps, click on “Zoning Map,” then, on the zoning map, click on the location of the property in question; you will be provided with the zoning regulations for that area. See also the Township Code Book for further information; Chapter 101 identifies the various zoning districts and regulations in the township. For additional information on planning and zoning matters call 609-799-0909, ext. 1502. Visit the Municipal Maps page.

5. How do I obtain Township zoning approval when a variance, subdivision, and/or site plan approval for non-residential development is involved?

Zoning approval for a variance from the zoning regulations, subdivision of a property, or for building improvements to a non-residential property require the submission of development applications and the approval of the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment. Development applications and related fees are available online or at the department during normal business hours. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Township Department of Planning and Zoning at 609-799-0909, ext. 1502 in advance of completing applications to verify application requirements and submission procedures. Forms page.

6. When and how do I obtain zoning approval from the Township?

Homeowners wishing to undertake building improvements, such as a home addition, deck, pool, shed, or fence need to obtain zoning approval, and in most cases, building permit approval from the Township. Minor improvements such as fences or small sheds (100 square feet or less in area) do not require building permits, only zoning approval by the Department of Planning and Zoning.

All building improvements requiring a permit are subject to the review and approval of the Department of Code Enforcement. All relevant building permit and zoning review information must be submitted to Code Enforcement. The zoning review portion of the submission shall include at a minimum, a completed Zoning Compliance Form, a marked-up survey showing the location and size of the improvement, the setback dimensions to the property lines, elevation views, and the materials and colors of the proposed improvement. If a permit is not required, all the above zoning review documents shall be submitted directly to the Department of Planning and Zoning for review and approval.

For additional information on planning and zoning matters call 609-799-0909, ext. 1502. Download the Zoning Compliance Form (PDF).

7. What rules apply to placing a fence on my residential property?

Fences are allowed in the front, side, and rear yards of most residential properties. In the front yard (corner lots have 2 front yards), fences are limited to 3 feet in height; in the side and rear yards they are limited to 6 feet in height. The finished side of a fence must be positioned to face neighboring properties and the street, as applicable. Fences may be placed on the property line between 2 lots; no setback is required. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to locate the property lines and install the fence either along or just inside the property lines on their property.

Fences can not be located within an easement area on a property (easements are often shown on property survey maps). In addition to the fence standards in Chapter 62 of the Township Code, certain residential developments have specific fence standards that were approved as part of the residential development involved. In such cases, additional restrictions may apply. All fences, except for 8 feet tall safety fences, do not require a building permit, only zoning approval by Department of Planning and Zoning.

Show All Answers

1. What are the New Jersey Child Restraint Law requirements?

The following recommendations will provide the safest way to transport your child according to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Additionally it will ensure compliance to the New Jersey Child Passenger Restraint Law. (Title 39:3-76.2a)

Any child under the age of 8 years old and a height of 57 inches shall be secured as follows in the rear seat of a motor vehicle:

a. A child under the age of 2 years and 30 pounds shall be secured in a rear-facing seat equipped with a 5-point harness.

b. A child under the age of 4 years and 40 pounds shall be secured as described in (a) until they reach the upper limits of the rear-facing seat, then in a forward-facing child restraint equipped with a 5-point harness.

c. A child under the age of 8 and a height of 57 inches shall be secured as described in (a) or (b) until they reach the upper limits of the rear-facing or forwardfacing seat, then in a belt positioning booster seat.

d. A child over 8 years of age or 57 inches in height must be properly secured by a seat belt.

If there are no rear seats, the child shall be secured as described above in the front seat except that no child shall be secured in a rear-facing seat in the front seat of any vehicle that is equipped with an active passenger-side airbag. The aforementioned is acceptable if the airbag is de-activated.

Motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of death of children over the age of six months in the United States. The proper use of child car seats is one of the simplest and most effective methods available for protecting the lives of our young children in the event of a motor vehicle crash.

However, 3 out of every 4 children in child safety seats are not properly secured, or even worse, not restrained at all. Only the correct use of child car seats will offer the protection your child needs. Please be aware of the facts listed on these Child Safety pages regarding the proper use of child car seats.

There are many different types of child car seats on the market today. Each one must meet federal standards and all provide good protection for your child when used correctly. The "right" seat for you is largely a matter of personal choice. Choose a seat that fits your child and your car, read the instructions carefully, and use the seat correctly on every trip.

Just as there are several types of Child Safety Seats, there are also several methods for securing these seats to a vehicle. Seat belt systems, lap belts or lap and shoulder belts are designed to be used for this purpose.

LATCH, which is an acronym for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, was designed to make installing child safety seats in vehicles easier. Nearly every car seat, and most vehicles manufactured since September 1, 2002 are required to have the LATCH system. For more information on LATCH including instructional videos, please click on the following link: LATCH

For a list of free Child Safety Seat Check events statewide, visit the Seat Check Schedule page.

For more information about the national Child Passenger Safety program, please visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) web page.

Note to Expectant Parents: Plan to have your child safety seat (infant seat) installed in your vehicle at least three weeks before the due date of your baby. By visiting the Seat Check Schedule page, and finding a nearby open event, or scheduling an appointment for at least three weeks prior to the due date, you'll make sure that you're ready for the big day. Most babies are delivered within the month surrounding the due date, so by including your child seat education three weeks before, the odds of being fully prepared on the birth day are enhanced.

Correct use is easy if you follow four steps:

Read the manufacturer's instructions for your car seat.

Face the child safety seat in the proper direction

Infant seats always face backwards. Baby rides in a semi-reclining position facing the rear of the car.

Convertible seats face backwards in a semi-reclining position for infants under 30 pounds and under 2 year of age, and forward in an upright position for toddlers.

Secure your child snugly in the car seat.

Always buckle the seat's harness system securely to hold your child safely in the seat. Allow no more than one finger-width of slack between your child's collarbone and the harness strap.

Secure the child car seat with a seat belt.

Anchoring the seat properly with a seat belt is critical. A seat that is not buckled securely to the car can tip over, slide sideways or, in a crash, be ejected from the car.

Check your instruction manual to find out how to route the seat belt properly and fasten it tightly.

Child Safety Restraints page.

2. How do I register my alarm system(s)?

The alarm system registration process is as follows:

An initial registration shall be required for each alarm system at the time of installation.

Any person wanting to register must file a  Permit Application  on-line or in person at our Records Bureau, between the hours of 8:30 - 1:00, Monday thru Friday.

A registration fee of $10 for each dwelling unit and $25 for all other applicants must be paid by the applicant. If 2 separate systems or a single system with 2 separate functions is involved, then separate fees shall be required for each system or function; but in no instance shall this permit fee exceed $50. In cases where a new homeowner or business assumes control of a system in place at the time of acquisition or possession of the property, a new registration is required.

3. How do I provide feedback on police personnel?

Any citizen who is dissatisfied with police services or believes they have witnessed or been a victim of police misconduct can file a complaint.

- In person at the Police Department

- Online submission Citizen Complaint - Electronic Submission

- By telephone to the Internal Affairs Unit at 609-799-2333

- By mail:

Plainsboro Township Police Department

641 Plainsboro Road

Plainsboro, NJ 08536

Citizen Complaint Against Police Personnel - Printable Form

Commendations about the police department personnel can be made:

- In person at the Police Department

- By telephone at 609-799-2333

- By mail:

Plainsboro Township Police Department

641 Plainsboro Road

Plainsboro, NJ 08536

You can find complete contact information for these departments, as well as email information in the

Staff Directory.

4. May I remain anonymous when reporting a crime?

Any individual reporting a crime or providing information relating to a crime can remain anonymous. Information can be provided to the Plainsboro Township Police Department at any time, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. The number to call is 609-799-2333.

5. How do I obtain a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO)?

In an emergency situation, when police are called to the residence, the officers on the scene can obtain a TRO for the victim. A TRO can also be obtained through the Middlesex County Court in New Brunswick. These orders can be obtained between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. After hours, weekends and holidays, TRO's can be obtained through the officer assigned to the incident at the Plainsboro Township Police Department.

6. How do I obtain a copy of a traffic accident report?

A person involved in a traffic accident should allow 5 working days for report review and processing. After 5 working days the accident report may be obtained through the Records Bureau between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. by calling 609-936-0039.

Show All Answers

1. How do I find out about mosquito control activities in my area?

You may contact the Middlesex County Health Division by calling 609-799-0909, ext. 1219 or contacting the Public Health Division.

2. Is the Health Officer able to assist me with a neighbor that has high grass?

A citation can only be issued if the grass is high enough to constitute a public health hazard. You may contact the Health Inspector to determine if the growth is considered at this level.

3. Who can I contact with questions regarding my well and septic system?

The Environmental Health Division of the Middlesex County Public Health Services is responsible for all wells and septic systems. They can be reached at 732-745-8480.

Show All Answers

1. How do I report a pothole?

Report a pothole by calling the Department of Public Works at 609-799-0099. When reporting a pothole, please know the name of the street and closest address. If unable to find an address please describe a landmark or closest intersection.

2. When is the next bulk waste event?

Bulk Waste Drop-off Events 

Bulk Waste Drop-Off page.

3. How do I replace a lost recycling container?

Residents requiring additional/new recycling containers should visit the Department of Public Works at:

20 Woodland Drive

Cranbury, NJ 08512

Monday through Friday

8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Kindly bring a check made out to the Township of Plainsboro. Call  609-799-0099 for more information and current pricing.

Show All Answers

1. How do I register for a recreation program?

Our online registration service makes program registration easy and provides an opportunity to keep you informed with the latest information about your favorite programs and events. To apply, visit our Registration page.

2. What programs/events do you offer?

We offer a variety of recreation programs, special events, and community services for Pre-School aged children through Senior Citizens. For more information, visit our Programs page.

3. How can I reserve a room in the municipal complex?

Eligibility requirements apply. For more information and to register online, visit the Facility Eligibility and Guidelines page.

4. How can I make a reservation for a ball field or picnic area?

Residents may register online to reserve a park facility. If you require further assistance, please contact Senior Park Ranger, Blake Beyer at 609-799-0909, ext. 1707 or visit the park.

Registration page.

5. How can I help/volunteer?

Those interested in volunteering, may complete an application on through our online registration service. Our programs and events rely on the generosity of volunteers on an as-needed basis. Please register online and view our current Volunteer Opportunities.

6. How can I apply for food pantry assistance?

Income eligible residents can apply for assistance from the Plainsboro Food Pantry. View the online application and other information on the Food Pantry page.

7. What type of foods can I donate to the food pantry?

Donations are greatly appreciated. The Food Pantry accepts a variety of personal care items, as well as, grocery and non-perishable items. View our complete list of accepted items and more information about the Food Pantry on our Food Pantry page.

Show All Answers

1. How do I obtain a license for my dog/cat?

Dog/Cat license applications are available on our website or in the clerk’s office. A valid rabies vaccine is required and must be current through October 31st of the licensing year as per State Statute (N.J.A.C. 8:23 A 4.1). Licenses are renewable annually after January 1st. Licenses renewed after February 1st will be assessed a $5 late fee for each month the renewal is late. Download the applications online.

2. What is acceptable identification to request a vital record?

Acceptable identification is a valid and current photo driver’s license. If you do not have a driver’s license then you must submit 2 alternate forms of identification and at least 1 must show the current address. Acceptable alternates include valid and current non-photo, non-drivers license issued by NJDMV for identification purposes; current vehicle registration; current vehicle insurance card; voter registration; US/Foreign passport; immigrant visa; permanent resident card (green card); federal/state; U.S. military; County; current school; utility bill-not more than 90 days old; bank statement-not more than 90 days old; W-2 or tax return for current or previous year.

3. Is there a waiting period before the license can be issued?

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 1 or both applicants. In certain cases, a Superior Court judge can waive all or part of the 72-hour waiting period.

4. Where can I get a copy of my divorce decree?

Contact the Superior Court of New Jersey Records Center at 609-421-6100.

5. Where do I apply for a marriage/civil union license?

This application must be filed in the municipality in which either applicant resides. If both live out of state then apply in the New Jersey municipality where the ceremony will take place. Access the marriage license online (PDF).

6. Who do I contact for Animal Control issues?

Contact the Plainsboro Police dispatch office at 609-799-2333, ext. 1631. Animals picked up by the animal control officer or police will not be released until the administrative fee of $75.00 is submitted to the Office of the Township Clerk. Or visit the Animal Control Staff Directory.

7. Do you offer a Free Rabies Clinic?

Yes, a free rabies clinic is scheduled during the 1st Saturday of November at the Plainsboro Public Works Garage. Dogs are scheduled from 9-10 a.m. and cats are from 10-11 a.m. Owners must have large dogs securely leashed. Very small dogs and cats should be in a pet carrier.

For the Middlesex County Rabies Schedule, please visit the county website.

8. How can I obtain a copy of a birth, death, or marriage record?

Certified copies of these vital records can be obtained in person from 9:00am to 3:30pm, Monday through Friday or ordered via US Mail. The fee is $15.00 per copy and $25.00 for any correction to the record. In person fees are payable by cash, credit or money order. Mail in request are only by money order made payable to Plainsboro Township. Please fill out the required request form and submit with acceptable identification. Please refer to our Township Clerk page for application forms.