Rules for Protecting Water and Planning in New Jersey's Highland Areas
Official: N.J.A.C. 7:38, Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act Rules
Reading: Readoption of N.J.A.C. 7:38 extends the existing Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act Rules without substantive modification or expansion.
The state confirmed these rules are still in effect and working as intended to keep the region's water clean and available for millions of residents.
In clear language
New Jersey is keeping its rules for protecting water resources and managing development in the Highland region, which covers over 860,000 acres across northern New Jersey. These rules require developers and property owners to follow strict protections for water supplies, forests, and natural habitats in this sensitive area. The state confirmed these rules are still in effect and working as intended to keep the region's water clean and available for millions of residents.
How does this affect you?
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Who does this affect?
- Property owners and developers planning projects in the New Jersey Highlands region (parts of 7 counties including Sussex, Morris, and Passaic)
- Municipalities and local governments in Highland areas that must follow regional planning requirements
- Families and businesses that rely on clean water from Highland streams and aquifers
- Farmers and forest landowners in the region managing their land
What can you do?
- If you own property in the Highlands, review the Highlands rules before making any land-use changes or development plans
- Contact your local planning board to understand how these water protection rules apply to your area
- Support local conservation efforts that protect Highland water sources and natural areas
Timeline
- 2022-10-17
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
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