Building permits in New Jersey
2 jurisdictions, each with the department that issues, its portal and its phone number. Cities issue their own permits; counties cover unincorporated areas, which is the distinction that sends most contractors to the wrong office.
2 checked against the department's own page
Licensing
Home improvement contractors must register annually with the Division of Consumer Affairs; NJ is transitioning to full licensing under the 2023 Home Improvement Contractor Licensing Act (bond/insurance in effect, exam licensing phasing in).
New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs — Home Improvement Contractor Unit