The following will help guide you through the process of opening a business in Millburn-Short Hills:

Welcome to Millburn-Short Hills
Millburn Township is part of a dynamic trade area that includes Summit, Livingston, Florham Park, Chatham, Madison, Maplewood, South Orange and West Orange, all within a three-mile radius.

Finding the Right Location
It is essential that you call the Building Department at Town Hall at 973-564-7055 to determine whether the location you are considering is properly zoned for your use. Other requirements such as on-site parking come into play so it is very important to call the Building Department before signing a lease or purchasing a building.

Renovations
Permits are required for most renovations and there are specific codes that must be followed during the renovation phase. There is a fee for each permit, and in most cases, the township's sub code officials conduct inspections during renovations. In some cases, architectural plans and traffic studies may be required. Again, the Building office will instruct you on what is required.

Signs
Quality signage is strongly encouraged. Your sign is a reflection of your business. All permanent business signs require a permit. The town regulates the type, size, location and illumination of signs. Awning and canopies are also regulated and require appropriate permits. Call the Building Department prior to ordering a sign or awning to make sure your proposal meets the codes.

Copies of the regulating ordinances are available from the Building Department. New business owners should also be familiar with the temporary window sign regulations. Only 20% of your window sign may be covered with paper signs.

Retail food establishments must obtain plan approval from the Health Department before the work begins. A license is required prior to opening. The Health Department, located at Town Hall, 375 Millburn Avenue, Millburn can be reached at 973-564-7087. If you intend to serve or dispense alcoholic beverages, you will require a license to do so. Call the Township Clerk's office at 973-564-7073 for information about liquor licensing.

Before you Move In
A Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.) is not required for a change of ownership if there is no change of tenancy or change of use.

A Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.) or Continued Certificate of Occupancy (C.C.O.) is required whenever there is a change of tenancy or change of use of a nonresidential occupancy. Fees are required for these certificates. You may not move into your space without a certificate in the following situations:

1. For space not involving a change of use, a Certificate of Continued Occupancy (C.C.O.) is required upon a change of tenancy.

2. For spaces involving a change of use, the Planning Board must first approve the proposed new use, and if approved, the new use will then require a Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.) for the new use.

Marketing your Business
The Chamber of Commerce sponsors a variety of year-round retail promotions, business-to- business marketing and special events that attract thousands of visitors to town. Membership in the Chamber is an investment in your business.

Media
The Item of Millburn-Short Hills, Independent Press, Star Ledger, New York Times, regional electronic media outlets and regional direct mail advertising publications provide numerous opportunities to advertise your business. A sufficient marketing budget should be an important part of your business plan.

Transportation
Millburn Township is easy to reach by train and bus. Visitors by car can easily access the Garden State Parkway, the New Jersey Turnpike, routes 24 & 78 and other major roadways. We are 20 minutes from Newark Airport and 40 minutes from Manhattan.

Important Addresses and Phone Numbers:
Millburn Town Hall, 375 Millburn Avenue, Millburn 973-564-7075
Building Department, 375 Millburn Avenue, Millburn 973-564-7055
Township Clerk's Office, 375 Millburn Avenue, Millburn 973-564-7073
Department of Public Works, 435 Essex Street, Millburn 973-564-7060
Millburn-Short Hills Chamber of Commerce, 973-379-1198

Garbage pick-up and recycling schedules are available from the Department of Public Works located at 345 Essex Street, Millburn.

Utilities
GPU Customer Service Center 800-662-3115
PSE&G 800-436-7734
NJ American Water 800-652-6987

To make your move to the Township a smooth one, please abide by the zoning and property maintenance codes. A warm welcoming business environment is your best business investment!