Joe:
Whoever told you that a permit is 'not required' for a panel change is incorrect!
Refer to the UCC (5:23-2.7- (c)3.i;ii;iii;iv; for items that are considered 'ordinary repairs' within the Electrical Sub-Code (5:23-3.16)
Keep in mind that what you hear from other people can sometimes be incorrect, as the UCC book is not something that many EC's have/own.
You can check the section I quoted above on-line thru the DCA portal website. (It's boring reading, as it's Law)
Remember, NJ AHJ's will quote you the Article that they are referencing, if you ask.
