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Affordable Housing

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1. What does COAH mean?

COAH is the Council on Affordable Housing. The council was a board made up of people in the State of NJ that made decisions on affordable housing issues in the state.

2. Can someone 55 years old go into senior housing?

No. In order to apply for Senior housing you must be 62 years old or older.

3. Can a Veteran purchase a home with no down payment money to purchase a home?

Yes. If a Veteran has received an honorable discharge and has a DD214 from the service they are entitled to a be qualified for a no money down Veteran loan.

4. Does the Veteran administration give the loan to purchase real estate?

No they do not. The VA gives the lender the guarantee that if the Veteran defaults on the loan the Veteran administration then will pay backs the bank and takes over the property.

5. Does a veteran have to purchase only a one family home?

No. The VA allow up to a 4 family owner occupied home to be financed. All Veterans must qualify for the financing from a bank or a mortgage broker in order to qualify for the loan amount.

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Boro Clerk

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1. How do I apply for a business permit?

Every business operating in Paramus is required to apply for a business permit. The application can be obtained and submitted online by visiting the Forms page, in person at the Clerk’s Office, or by mail. The required fee varies based on the type of business being conducted. The fee schedule is listed by type of business on the last page of the application.

2. If I want to open up a business, where do I find the correct forms and Licenses?

No matter the size of the business, a Business permit is required to sell goods and services to the public in the Town Of Paramus.  You can obtain this information through the Forms Page.

3. I want to have a garage sale, do I need a permit?

Yes, Borough ordinances require a resident to obtain a permit to hold a garage sale. The application can be obtained by visiting the Forms page, or done in person at the Clerk’s Office. There is a $15 fee associated with garage sales. A resident is allowed two garage sale permits per year. Each permit allows three consecutive days to hold the sale.

4. If I already have a landscaping license from the state, do I also need one from the Borough of Paramus?

Yes, Borough ordinances require landscaping companies to obtain a permit from the Borough. Current registration of all vehicles must be presented at the time the application is submitted, and must have commercial license plates.

5. When can I get a passport?

You can come in BY APPOINTMENT from 9AM-3:30PM; you are required to bring in a photo of yourself since we do not take pictures at our facility.  For additional information, please use this link 

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Building Department

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1. Do I need a Permit for my shed?

A shed equal or less than 100 sq. ft. shall be setback a minimum of 5 ft. from the rear and side yards (10 ft. x 10 ft. high).  A shed larger than 10 ft. x 10 ft. or is placed on a concrete slab or has poured concrete footings, is considered an accessory structure and must be erected 10 ft. from the rear yard line.  For the side yard setbacks, please refer to the zoning requirements.  Both types of shed permit submittals require a jacket, building subcode, small construction, and a site survey indicating location of the shed and setbacks.

* See: Sheds Fences Pools Patios Decks and Driveways handout Sheet (PDF) as stated above for detailed information. 

2. Do I need a permit for fencing?

In the rear yard and along the side yard lines a fence can be as high as 6 ft. 6 inches in height.  A fence can be placed along the property line as long as it is on the homeowner’s property.  The good side of the fence must be facing toward your neighbor.  Within the 35 ft. front yard setback a solid fence (such as stockade, board on board or chain link with the metal slots covered) the allowable height is 3 ft. or 36 inches.  A “see-thru” fence (such as post rail or chain link with open slots) the allowable height is 3 ft. 6 in. or 42 inches.  A fence permit submittal requires a jacket, building subcode, small construction, and a site survey with the fence highlighted on the survey.

* See: Sheds Fences Pools Patios Decks and Driveways handout Sheet (PDF) as stated above for detailed information. 

3. Do I need a permit for Decks and/or Patios?

A deck and/or patio must be erected a minimum of 20 ft. from the rear yard line.  For side yard setbacks, please refer to the zoning requirements.  Deck permit submittals require a jacket, building permit, small construction and site survey.  The deck is to be drawn to scale on a survey no older than 20 years, showing dimensions and setbacks.  Footing, framing and stair plans are required.  A patio permit submittal requires a site work permit and site survey with the patio drawn to scale showing dimensions and setbacks.

* See: Sheds Fences Pools Patios Decks and Driveways handout Sheet (PDF) as stated above for detailed information. 

   

4. Do I need a permit for my pool?

An in-ground or aboveground pool must be erected 10 ft. from the rear yard, side yard setback is based on the property zone and must be at least 5 ft. from any structure (house, shed or garage).                

* See: Sheds Fences Pools Patios Decks and Driveways handout Sheet (PDF) as stated above for detailed information. 

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Courts

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1. Is my ticket payable?

Yes, if it is not marked "Court Appearance required," and the payment amount can be found on the Statewide Violations Bureau Schedule.

2. Why do I have to get a new court date, when I have one on my speeding violation summons?

The date shown on your summons is your payment date.

3. If I pay my ticket, how many points will I get on my license?

Please refer to the Motor Vehicle Commission Point Schedule.

4. How much is my fine?

Please refer to the Statewide Violations Bureau Schedule or the back of your summons.

5. Can I pay my fines over the telephone?

No, but you can pay on the New Jersey Courts website, in person, or mail in your payment to the Court.

6. Do you have an interpreter?

A Spanish interpreter is always available during court sessions. If you need another language, you should notify the court staff prior to your court appearance.

7. Will I need a lawyer?

The court staff cannot offer legal advice. Depending on the offense you may want to consult an attorney.

8. How can I apply for a Public Defender?

You can only apply for a Public Defender in court. The Judge will determine if you are eligible according to the offense and your income. The Public Defender fee is $200.

9. What should I do if I do not have my complaint or summons number?

Be prepared to give the court staff member your driver's license number so they can assist you.

10. Does my ticket carry any points?

You must contact NJ Motor Vehicle Commission at (609)-292-6500 or visit their website.

11. Why is my offense court appearance required?

Certain offenses must have fines set by the judge according to the statute.

12. How long does court usually last?

It depends on a few different factors, but a typical court session can last anywhere between 2 and 4 hours.

13. Can I reschedule my court date on the day of court?

No, as per the Judge’s policy, no matters can be rescheduled on the day of court.  However, you may fax us a letter requesting an adjournment which will be read by the judge in determining whether or not your matter will be rescheduled.

14. What happens if I miss court?

Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be issued a new court date or a bench warrant for your arrest.  If you do miss a court day, contact the court immediately.

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Dog & Cat Licensing

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1. Why should I license my dog or cat?

Pet licensing is part of our municipal rabies control program. Pet licensing ensures that dogs and cats have up to date rabies immunizations, which protects your family and pets against rabies. Licensing encourages pet population control, through the low cost spay and neuter program and license discounts for spayed or neutered pets. Licensing also has the added benefit of providing an easy way of identifying lost pets so they can be quickly returned to their proper owners.

2. When do I have to license my cat or dog?

Pets are required to get a license when they are 7 months of age or older.

3. How often must licenses be renewed?

Licenses expire every year on June 30th. On or after July 1st, a late charge of $10 is applied. You may purchase a 3 year license if your dog or cat has been recently immunized and the immunization period is valid through April 30^th of the third year of the license.

4. What information must be included with my application?

Please provide the following information: 

• Proof of spaying or neutering.
• Proof of your pet's current rabies immunization from your veterinarian.
• State Health Department policy requires the duration of your pet's rabies immunization to be at least ten months of the license year (i.e. must not expire before April 30th). If the vaccination expires before that date, your pet must be re-vaccinated before applying for a license.
• To qualify for a $3 per year license discount enclose proof from your veterinarian that your pet has been spayed or neutered.

5. What are the fees?

Renewal Fees

Dog or Cat License (1 year)

• Spayed or neutered: $12
• Non-spayed or neutered: $15

Dog or Cat License (3 year)

• Spayed or neutered: $30
• Non-spayed or neutered: $40

Late fee for renewing on or after July 1st or licensing after a notice of violation or summons for non license is $10

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Emergency Medical Services

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1. What is your contact information?

• In an emergency, call 911.
• For EMS (emergency medical services) matters, mail may be sent to:
  Paramus Emergency Medical Services
  Borough of Paramus
  1 Jockish Square West
  Paramus, NJ 07652-2771
• Mail sent to this address will be received by our Command Staff (EMS officers)
• Voice mail may be left at 201-262-3400, ext. 5200

2. How do I obtain a call report?

Before May 1995

If the incident for which you are requesting a Call Report occurred before May 1995, please send a subpoena requesting the report to:

Board of Directors
Paramus Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Inc.
295 E Midland Avenue
Paramus, NJ 07652-5594

After April 1995

If the incident for which you are requesting a Call Report occurred after April 1995, please send a subpoena requesting the report to:

Borough Clerk
Borough of Paramus
1 Jockish Square West
Paramus, NJ 07652-2771

Effective July 7, 2002, the New Jersey Open Public Records Act (OPRA) took effect. Please contact the Borough of Paramus to determine if the records you need are available under OPRA.

3. What happens when I call 911?

When you call 911, your call is routed to a Public Safety Answering Point where a trained dispatcher will ask you a series of questions to determine what assistance you need. Depending on your answers, the dispatcher may send police, fire, ambulance, rescue, paramedics, hazmat, a helicopter or some combination of them.

• Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you it is okay to do so.
• If the dispatcher gives you instructions, follow them carefully.
• For a medical emergency or injury, police and an ambulance will be dispatched. The ambulance will be staffed with Emergency Medical Technicians who can provide basic life support (BLS). If your emergency is serious, paramedics from a local hospital may also be sent to provide advanced life support (ALS).
• If you have pets, put them in another room for the safety of the emergency responders and to assure that the patient or victim does not experience a delay in treatment.
• If possible, send someone to guide the emergency responders to the exact site of the emergency. Up to 3 different agencies (police, ambulance, paramedics) may respond and they may not arrive at the same time, so you may need to send someone to guide the emergency responders 3 separate times.
• You will be transported to the nearest appropriate hospital. In most cases, that means you will be transported to the local hospital of your choice. For serious trauma, you may be transported to a trauma center, even if it means passing a closer hospital. This is to assure that you receive the level of treatment that is appropriate for your situation. If the hospital of your choice is on "bypass" (the Emergency Room is full and you may face a lengthy wait) or "divert" (the entire hospital is full and you may face a lengthy wait), you will be informed so you can decide if it might be better to go to a different hospital.

4. How can I make it easier for you to help me?

You should download and complete our Emergency Medical Information Form (PDF). This form lists the questions we will ask you on nearly every call. Please try to have the form available for us. You will also find this form useful for a doctor's visit or a hospital visit, because they will generally ask you the same questions. 

In addition, please try to have your medical insurance information handy. We will generally ask you for the name of your insurance company, the address, and the policy number. We will also ask for your telephone number, your Social Security number, and your Medicare or Medicaid number. For motor vehicle accidents we also will ask for your motor vehicle insurance information.

5. Who do I contact about employment opportunities?

Contact Milton N Kohlmann, Chief, Paramus Emergency Medical Service.

6. Who do I contact about billing questions?

Please contact Sandi Gunderson, Deputy EMS Coordinator, with any billing questions. 

7. Do you have home health care medical equipment for loan?

Please contact the Paramus Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Inc., a separate organization, at 201-262-1109 for assistance.

8. What should I do to assure that I obtain the best EMS service possible?

• When you call 911 give a very clear description of where you are so we can locate you quickly.
• Secure your pets to assure the safety of all the first responders and to enable us to reach you as quickly as possible.
• Have a completed Emergency Medical Information Form (PDF).

9. Do you bill for services?

• For a Paramus resident: we bill your insurance company, but do not send a bill for the balance that was not covered by your insurance.
• For nonresidents: we bill your insurance company and also send a bill for the balance not covered by insurance.

10. How do I arrange for an ambulance to take me home from the hospital? Do you have any home health care loan equipment that I may borrow?

Paramus EMS does not provide these services, but we can refer you to the Paramus Volunteer Ambulance Corps for further assistance, or you can call them directly at 201-262-1109 or 201-649-0761. Many of our employees are members of the Paramus Volunteer Ambulance Corps.

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Environmental Commission

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1. Key Facts on the Boroughs Plastic Bag & Polystyrene Ban

2. When are the Paramus Environmental Commission meetings?

The second Monday of every month at 8 pm Lower Level  Borough Hall. Meetings are open to the public.

3. When does Paramus celebrate Earth Day 2022?

Earth Day 2022 will be held - Saturday April 30, 2022 3pm – 6pm at the Paramus Main Library, with entertainment to follow: A showing of Fern Gully at sundown 

4. When is the next Hazardous waste collection?

Paramus’s collection events take place at Bergen Community College (400 Paramus Road)

• Paramus: April 3^rd, June 12^th and October 16^th
• Mahwah: May 14^th, July 16^th and September 10^th
• Moonachie: March 12^th and November 19^th 

More information at www.bcua.org

5. When is the Paramus Farmers Market?

Farmers market dates/time and location are currently being discussed.  Please keep an eye out for updates! 

Paramus Farmers Market Facebook for the latest updates, information, and special events.

6. What is the Paramus Community Clean up Event?

Roll up your sleeves and take part in making Paramus beautiful.  Usually scheduled for late September, dates are posted on our flyer and the commission’s Facebook page.  The Paramus community clean up event hosts a day of cleaning up various locations through out Paramus.  This is done by numerous community groups such as the scouts, recreation groups, high school clubs, religious groups and more.  See flyers or Facebook for sign up information. 

Contact the Paramus Environmental Commission if you or your group/organization is interested in details.

Follow the Paramus Environmental Commission on Facebook for the latest updates.

7. I have a suggestion, concern, or idea that I would like discussed at the next meeting.

Contact the Paramus Environmental Commission  to be added to the agenda.

8. What are some related organizations?

Paramus DPW, Paramus Shade Tree, Bergen County Utilities Authority (BCUA)

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Fire Prevention

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1. I'm a Senior Citizen; will Fire Prevention assist me in installing a smoke alarm/carbon monoxide alarm or batteries in my alarms?

Fire prevention has a program where we will install smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and batteries for seniors at no cost to the resident.

2. Is a fire extinguisher required when I sell my house? What type and size of fire extinguisher should i have?

Yes, the recommended extinguisher for home use is a “Dry Chemical” type, generally type 2A-10BC.

3. When selling my house is battery operated smoke alarms permitted?

Yes, they have to be 10 year battery type, with the exception being if hardwired smoke alarms were required under a certificate of occupancy requirement or a previous construction project that required hardwired smoke alarms.

4. Do I need to register my business with Fire Prevention?

Yes, all businesses are required to register with the exception of businesses exempted by NJAC 5:70-2.4 and NJAC 5:70-2.7.

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Health

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1. How do I purchase a certified copy of a birth record, a marriage record, a civil union record or a death record?

Learn how to request public records by visiting our Vital Records page.

2. How do I apply for a marriage license?

The marriage/civil union license application is to be made in the New Jersey municipality in which either party resides and the license is valid throughout the State of New Jersey. More details are available on our Marriage Licenses page.

3. How do I apply for a civil union license?

You may apply in the New Jersey municipality in which either person resides. The license is valid throughout the State of New Jersey. Additional information is available on the Civil Union page.

4. How do I license my cat or dog or renew a pet license?

Pet licensing is part of our municipal rabies control program. Licensing has the added benefit of providing an easy way of identifying lost pets so they can be quickly returned to their proper owners. Learn more on the Dog & Cat Licensing page.

5. What do I need to do to construct or renovate a food establishment, public swimming facility, pet shop, kennel, body art facility, beauty parlor or nail salon in Paramus?

These links will help get you started if you want to construct or renovate a food establishment, public swimming facility, pet shop, kennel, body art facility, beauty parlor or nail salon in Paramus:

• Construction or Renovation of Food Establishment Procedures (PDF)
• Operating a Kiosk or Cart Selling Food Procedures (PDF)
• Beauty Parlor and Nail Salon Application (PDF)

If you need additional information please view our Forms, Licenses & Permits page.

6. What do I need to do to open a kiosk or cart selling food or beverages in a shopping mall in the Borough of Paramus?

Learn about Operating a Kiosk or Cart Selling Food Procedures (PDF).

7. How do I make a complaint about a health hazard?

Information on making a health hazard complain can be found on the Environmental Health page. 

8. How do I report an animal bite?

For bites that occurred in Paramus, phone the Paramus Police Department at 201-262-3400 to make a report. The matter will be investigated and followed up by an Environmental Health Specialist. Additional information can be found on the Animal Bite Reports page.

9. How do I find out about available clinic services?

The Paramus Board of Health provides a variety of preventive health services. For a list of available services please view the Clinical Services page.

10. Can I open a food stand such as a hot dog stand in front of Home Depot or Lowes?

No, the Borough of Paramus only allows mobile vendors, not stationary vendors.  Mobile vendors move from location to location.

11. We are getting married; do we need to make an appointment for a marriage license?

No, there is someone in the office all day from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm and we have coverage during lunch time.

12. Who do I call if I see a dead deer in the street?

Call the Police Department, they will determine if the street is a Paramus Road, County Road or State Road and will send to the appropriate agency.

13. Are food handlers required to wear gloves?

No, the code states that food handlers are to wash hands and to not have direct contact with ready to eat foods.  Food handlers need to wash hands and use tongs or tissues to transfer ready to eat foods.  Gloves are not required but can be worn, it is more  important that hands are washed as often as necessary.

14. Can we use credit cards to pay for licenses and permits?

Yes, the only license we cannot accept credit cards for is a dog or cat license because they are under a trust account.

15. how long does my marriage application have to be held before i can pick it up

72 hours

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Pool

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1. Where is it located

Van Binsberger Blvd
Paramus, NJ 07652

2. Can I bring my children?

Yes we have a kiddie pool for children 4 years and under and an intermediate pool for children older than 4.

3. Can I come for the day?

Day passes are not available. Must be a member of the Paramus pool. Members can bring a guest (up to 6 guest) a day. Fees applicable. 

4. Do I have to be a resident of Paramus to use the pool?

No you do not have to be a resident of Paramus to join as a member, but will be charged a different rate for non-residents.

5. Is there somewhere to eat at the Pool?

Yes, there is the Café which serves snacks and traditional concession stand items.

6. Do you have an indoor pool?

No, we are an outdoor pool.

7. Is the pool heated?

Our pools are not heated.

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Public Works

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1. Do I need a special pick up for: (a variety of items are mentioned)?

Special pick ups are needed for metal items such as appliances, refrigerators, air conditioners, as well as for electronic items such as computers and TVs.

2. When do I put branches out for collection?

Branches are picked up the same day your commingled recycling containers emptied.
Please do not mix branches in the same container with grass. 

3. Who do I speak to about a town tree?

Please contact the shade tree department- (201) 265-2100 Ext-4120.

4. When is furniture picked up?

Furniture and trash items are collected on the second trash day of the week. Thursday if you live south of Midland Avenue. Friday if you live north of Midland Avenue.

5. What do I do with old paint?

Paint can be disposed of through the BCUA household hazardous waste collections held at three different locations in Bergen County several times a year. Additional information is available through the BCUA website: www.BCUA.org

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Recreation

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1. How can I volunteer to coach? What are the requirements?

Anyone wishing to coach any youth activity must complete the Recreation Commission's requirements. 

2. Who do I contact about events and activities at the parks?

Please call the Bergen County Parks Commission at 201-336-7275.

3. Do you have a hall to rent?

No, but one of the Fire Companies located on Farview Avenue does. You can reach them by calling 201-712-0286.

4. Are ball fields available for use?

Based on availability soccer, softball, and baseballs fields will be rented to groups that are not affiliated with the Paramus Recreation Department. Besides a fee, insurance listing the Borough of Paramus as well as the Paramus Recreation Commission as being additionally insured for the specific event/date will be required. View the field rental policy and fees. 

5. How can I sign up for Little League or Babe Ruth Baseball?

The Recreation Department does not oversee any of the baseball programs here in town. Parents needing information about T-Ball, Little League, or Babe Ruth will need to contact the Paramus Junior Baseball League at 201-444-6788.

6. Do you offer golf lessons? What are the hours for the Miniature Golf Course?

No, but the pro at the Paramus Municipal Golf Course does. Call the golf course at 201-447-6079 for any questions concerning golf including the miniature course.

7. Can non-residents join the pool?

Yes, but you need to call the Paramus Pool Department at 201-265-2100, ext. 6140.

8. Can non-residents take part in Paramus Recreation Programs?

No, Paramus Recreation programs are only for those who live in Paramus. Visiting relatives and friends will not be accepted into any of the Recreation Department's programs.

9. Where are there public tennis courts in Paramus? Do you offer tennis lessons?

The Borough maintains two tennis courts at the Cliff Gennarelli Sports Complex. They are open daily from dawn to 10 p.m. except for when a Paramus Recreation programs are held. Permits are not required. First come, first serve. The tennis courts located at the High School are under the jurisdiction of the Paramus Board of Education. Questions concerning the high school courts should be directed to the Board of Education at 201-261-7800.

10. Where are the parks located?

View a list of directions for all parks and schools where our programs take place. 

11. Do you offer soccer in the Spring?

No, we offer soccer in the Fall and as well as in the Winter. Those seeking to play soccer all year round should contact Lou Hegyi of the Paramus Spartans Soccer Club. He can be reached at 201-456-0934. The Spartans are a private club and are not affiliated with the Recreation Department.

12. Do you have a youth roller hockey program?

Since there is not enough interest amongst Paramus youth to support Paramus Roller Hockey Teams, we have joined forces with the Wildcats Roller Hockey Association that is based out of Westwood. All of the Wildcats practices and home games are held at Petruska Park in Paramus. 

13. Are ball fields available for use?

Based on availability soccer, softball & baseballs fields will be rented to groups that are not affiliated with the Paramus Recreation Department. Besides a fee, insurance listing the Borough of Paramus as well as the Paramus Recreation Commission as being additionally insured for the specific event/date will be required.

14. How can I sign up for Little League or Babe Ruth Baseball?

The Recreation Department does not oversee any of the baseball programs here in town. Parents needing information about T-Ball, Little League or Babe Ruth will need to contact the Paramus Junior Baseball League at (201)444-6788.

15. How can I volunteer to coach? What are the requirements?

Anyone wishing to coach any youth activity must complete the Recreation Commission's requirements.  Coaching requirements can be found here.

16. Can non-residents take part in Paramus Recreation Programs? My grandson is staying with me for the summer; can I sign him up for playground?

The answer to both of these questions is no. Paramus Recreation programs are only for those who live in Paramus. Visiting relatives and friends will not be accepted into any of the Recreation Department's programs.

17. Where can I hold a family reunion? Where can I hold a birthday party?Is the Zoo open at Van Saun Park? Is the train running at Van Saun Park?Is a fee charged to play tennis at Van Saun Park?

Call the Bergen County Parks Commission at (201) 336-7275

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Reporting an Emergency

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1. What is 9-1-1?

9-1-1 is the universal emergency telephone number that you can dial 24-hours a day for police, fire, or emergency medical service.

2. When should I dial 9-1-1?

Dial 9-1-1 immediately when life or property is in imminent danger. Don’t wait for someone else to make the call!

3. Where can I dial 9-1-1?

9-1-1 is a free call and can be dialed from any phone.

4. How does 9-1-1 work?

Your 9-1-1 call will be answered by a 9-1-1 telecommunicator who is trained in handling 9-1-1 telephone calls. The 9-1-1 telecommunicators are trained to ask questions to help determine the appropriate agencies to respond to the emergency.

5. What if my phone requires an access number for an outside line?

In some locations, such as office buildings, it may be necessary to dial an access number (usually the digit 9) to get an outside line before you can dial 9-1-1.

6. How do I use 9-1-1?

Remain calm. Speak clearly. Provide the 9-1-1 telecommunicator with the following information:

1. Exactly what the problem is
2. Where the problem is
3. The phone number you are calling from
4. Your address and name, if requested

Please stay on the telephone. Answer the telecommunicator’s questions and follow any instructions you may be given.

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Senior Center

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1. When is the Center open?

The Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

2. Is there a fee to join?

There is no fee to join the Center. The only requirements are you must be a Paramus resident age 62 or older.

3. What services does the senior bus provide?

The senior bus provides service door to door for food shopping and for club meetings. On Tuesdays the seniors are brought to the Center for bingo after shopping, and then home after bingo is over. The bus number is 201-649-0738 or 201-265-2100, ext. 3150.

4. Why aren’t trips posted in the newsletter?

There are over 500 newsletters mailed monthly, seating is limited, and the goal of the newsletter is to draw people in.  Therefore, our calendar reflects our regular classes.  For all the people who come to the center they find out about trips which are posted at the entrances.

5. What’s the movie?

As soon as we hear from the library movies we’ve requested we will let you know.

6. Why don’t I get preferential treatment, I pay taxes?

All of the Paramus residents pay taxes and preferential treatment, if any, goes to those who attend the center regularly.

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Shade Tree

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1. How do I know what trees are town trees?

Usually town trees are 10’ -20’ from the curb line and are located in the planting utility easement. Town trees are usually all in a line with the  adjacent properties’ town trees.

2. Can I trim a town tree?

NO! All town trees are maintained by Shade Tree & parks call our office for a service request to trim.

3. I am building a new home or adding a large addition can I remove the town tree and pay for new ones?

No, the policy of the Shade Tree Commission is not to remove live healthy trees.

4. Currently there are no town trees on my property can I have new ones planted?

Yes, the Shade Tree Commission will inspect your location and plant at no cost to you appropriate trees for your area.

5. The tree in front of my house is leaning I’m afraid it will fall. Can it be removed?

Most trees that are leaning have been growing that way towards the sun since they were planted or grew naturally. Those trees have a cell structure that is stronger on the back side of the lean which counter acts the lean. The policy of the Shade Tree commission is to investigate all concerns of leaning trees and to advise the property owner of our findings.

6. There is a brook on my property and the trees on the sides of the brook need to be trimmed will Shade Tree trim those trees?

Most brooks run through or are the property boundaries of private property. Trimming and /or removal of those trees are the responsibility of the property owner.  If the tree has fallen or tree branches are obstructing the water flow the DPW will de-snag or remove the fallen tree or debris.

7. Do I need a permit to trim or remove trees on my property?

Currently there are no permits required to trim or remove trees on private property unless the property is undeveloped or there is a required Zoning Board planted buffer area. Call our office before you proceed with any tree work if you have a question if your property has such a buffer.

8. Can I trim the branches from my neighbor’s trees that are over hanging my property?

This is a question that has been handled by case law. Shade Tree recommends that you first talk to your neighbor before taking any actions.

9. There is a greenish fungus on the town tree will it hurt the tree?

The light green growths on the tree are lichens. Lichens will not harm the tree they are usually found on the northerly side of the tree, but not always and they are an indication of clean air.

10. I want to expand my driveway but the town tree is in the way. Can I remove the town tree?

No. The Shade Tree and Parks policy is not to remove live, and healthy town trees.  Shade Tree and Parks will work with you to redesign the driveway alignment.

11. The roots from the town tree have clogged our sewer line why is this?

Tree roots are usually located within the top 30” of soil where air, water and other natural nutrients are readily available. Older sewer lines of clay or cast iron pipe will sag or fail at joints allowing nutrient rich waste water to leak. The moisture from this leak will attract the roots down and into the pipes seeking moisture and ultimately clogging the pipe. Engineering studies have proven that the sewer line failed before the roots became a problem.

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Tax Assessor

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1. How can I get my taxes reduced?

In order to reduce your property taxes you must reduce your property tax assessment. In order to do this you must prove that your equalized property tax value is less than the market value of your property.

2. What is equalized value?

The equalized value is the current property tax assessment divided by the director’s ratio. For example if a tax assessment is 450,000 and the ratio is 80% the equalized ratio is $562,500.

3. Where can I file an appeal?

You can file an appeal with the Bergen County Board of Taxation or the New Jersey Division of Taxation. The filing deadline is April 1 of the current tax year.

4. What do I need to file a tax appeal?

You will need proof that your market value is too high. You can get comparable sales of similar homes that sold for less. You can get an appraisers report but remember with an appraisal report the appraiser must be present at the hearing so he can testify to his value. I would suggest before you file an appeal talk to the assessor, review your property record card, and review the comparable sales in your neighborhood.

5. Where does my property tax money go?

All of the money paid for your property tax is to support your local government, school and the county government. None of your property taxes goes to the state government.

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Tax Collector

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1. When are taxes due each year and is there a grace period?

Due dates are February 1st, May 1st, August 1st, and November 1st of each year with a ten day grace period.

2. What is the interest rate penalty on delinquent taxes?

Interest accrues on any unpaid taxes due after the tenth day of each billing quarter at a rate of 8% for the first $1,500 due and 18% on all balances above the $1,500 threshold on a per diem basis.

3. Are there any tax relief programs offered by the State of New Jersey?

The State of New Jersey offers two programs.  First is the Property Tax Reimbursement (Senior Freeze).  This program is offered to residents that are over 65 years of age and meet the income requirements which change yearly.  Taxes are “frozen” for the year an individual applies.  Amounts paid over this “frozen” amount will be reimbursed by the State for the overpayment. The second program is the Homestead Rebate Program.  This program is an income tax rebate which is applied to a resident’s property taxes.  Depending on the resident’s income reported on their State Income tax and/or if the resident is over 65 years of age will determine their eligibility.  More information and applications can be found on the State of New Jersey Website. www.State.NJ.US/Treasury/Taxation  or by calling 1-800-882-6597.

4. Can taxes be paid by credit card?

The Borough now offers online credit card payments and E-Check payments thru the Borough website www.paramusborough.org  Credit Cards have 2.75% convenience fee and E-Checks are free of charge.

5. Is postmark accepted for tax and sewer payments?

Postmark is not accepted for any tax and sewer payments.  Payments must be received by the Tax Collector by the grace period date for each billing quarter.  If payment is not received, then the statutory interest rate will apply going back to original due date of the 1st of the month.