New Jersey Assembly Bill A3004

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/22
• Refer: 2/28/22

Caption

Allows for relocation of approved residual dwelling site opportunities on preserved farmland under certain circumstances.

Impact

The bill allows for relocation under specific conditions, such as ensuring that the original site must not have been previously utilized, and that any relocated site must not lead to a net loss of farmland. Moreover, the preservation of agricultural operations must not be adversely affected by the relocation. This change seeks to promote agricultural sustainability while accommodating the needs for housing related to agricultural labor, potentially impacting the landscape of farmland use in New Jersey.

Summary

Assembly Bill 3004, introduced in the New Jersey 220th Legislature, aims to provide a mechanism for the relocation of approved residual dwelling sites on preserved farmland under certain conditions. The bill stipulates that owners of preserved farmland may apply to relocate their residual dwelling site, provided they obtain approval from the county agriculture development board and the State Agriculture Development Committee. This could allow for greater flexibility in the use of agricultural land while adhering to preservation standards.

Contention

Some points of contention may arise regarding the approval process and the consultations required with local municipalities or nonprofits involved in the development easement. Critics of similar measures might argue that even well-intentioned provisions might inadvertently weaken protections for preserved farmlands. Additionally, the specific definitions of what constitutes a 'residual dwelling site opportunity' and under what precise circumstances relocation is permitted could lead to legal interpretations that differ among stakeholders.