New Jersey Assembly Bill A130

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Directs DEP to develop model ordinance for municipalities to regulate deposit and storage of soil and fill materials.

Impact

Once the DEP model ordinance is adopted, it will be the framework upon which municipalities can create their own ordinances governing soil and fill materials. The model ordinance will include requirements for monitoring and managing these materials, as well as stipulations for operational processes like hours of delivery and inspections for compliance. The intention behind this is to create a standardized approach that municipalities must follow, thereby streamlining the regulatory process across the state. Local governments will be able to implement their own regulations, provided they align with the state model, thus promoting uniformity while still allowing for local adjustments.

Summary

Assembly Bill A130 aims to address the regulation of soil and fill materials by directing the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to develop a model ordinance for municipalities. This ordinance is intended to establish guidelines for the deposit and storage of soil and fill materials, which include various types of aggregate substitutes such as broken concrete and brick. The regulation is designed to protect public health, safety, and welfare by ensuring that municipalities can effectively manage how these materials are handled within their jurisdictions.

Contention

There may be points of contention regarding the new regulations, particularly from stakeholders in construction and real estate who may view the imposition of these regulations as a burden on operations. Concerns might arise about the costs associated with compliance, as well as how restrictions could impact project timelines. Furthermore, there could be discussions around the authority given to municipalities for inspections and enforcement, which can lead to disagreements among local governments, especially regarding the resources required to enforce these new requirements.