New Jersey Senate Bill S1904

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Authorizes municipalities to adopt ordinances requiring maintenance and repair of certain wharves, piers, docks and bulkheads.

Impact

If enacted, S1904 will facilitate local governments to impose regulatory frameworks that align with standards developed by the Department of Environmental Protection. Municipalities adopting such ordinances would be mandated to enforce repairs and maintenance, which will also necessitate compliance from the owners of these structures. The Department will provide guidance to municipalities, assisting them in creating and upholding these standards, ultimately leading to a more organized and safer approach to managing waterway infrastructure.

Summary

Senate Bill S1904 proposes to empower municipalities in New Jersey to adopt ordinances mandating the maintenance and repair of integral waterfront structures, specifically wharves, piers, docks, and bulkheads along navigable waterways. This initiative is aimed at ensuring these structures are safe and capable of minimizing potential dangers to public health and safety, as well as protecting the environment. The bill underscores the significance of these structures in local communities while promoting responsible stewardship of New Jersey's waterfront resources.

Contention

Concerns may arise regarding local authority versus state oversight as the bill gives municipalities a degree of autonomy to formulate their regulations. Additionally, there could be financial implications for property owners who may face penalties for non-compliance. The potential fines can escalate with repeated offenses, raising questions about the fairness of punitive measures for financial strains faced by some property owners. These aspects may elicit discussions surrounding the balance between environmental needs and individual property rights.