Rules to Protect the Delaware and Raritan Canal
Official: N.J.A.C. 7:45, Regulations for the Review Zone of the Delaware and Raritan Canal
Reading: Readoption of N.J.A.C. 7:45 extends existing Delaware and Raritan Canal review zone regulations without stated modification or substantive policy change.
The regulations were updated and officially reconfirmed in April 2023.
In clear language
New Jersey is readopting regulations that protect the Delaware and Raritan Canal area from harmful development and pollution. These rules help preserve the canal's water quality and natural environment for the communities that depend on it. The regulations were updated and officially reconfirmed in April 2023.
How does this affect you?
Pick the type of resident or organization you most identify with — we'll generate a plain-language breakdown of what changes for you and what you can do about it.
Who does this affect?
- Residents and businesses near the Delaware and Raritan Canal in central New Jersey
- Property owners who want to develop land in or near the canal's review zone
- Communities that rely on the canal for drinking water or recreational activities
- Environmental organizations working to protect the canal's ecosystem
What can you do?
- If you own property near the canal, check with your local government about which development rules apply to your land
- Report pollution or illegal dumping in the canal to the NJ Department of Environmental Protection
- Participate in local planning meetings about canal protection and water quality projects
Timeline
- 2023-04-17
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
Related policies
- DEPOct 23, 2026State approves $88 million for open space, parks, and flood-prone home buyouts
New Jersey's Garden State Preservation Trust has approved more than $88 million for projects that protect open land, improve state parks and forests, and buy homes in flood-prone areas through the voluntary Blue Acres program. The money will help preserve water supplies, connect wildlife habitats, and make outdoor spaces easier to reach. The funding also supports flood protection by moving people out of areas that flood repeatedly.
- DEPOct 19, 2026New Jersey Adds All-Terrain Wheelchairs to State Parks
New Jersey is placing five new all-terrain wheelchairs at state parks and historic sites to make outdoor spaces more accessible to people with disabilities. This effort builds on the state's commitment to ensure all residents can enjoy public natural areas. The wheelchairs will be available for use at participating state parks.
- DEPSep 22, 2026New Jersey Plants 1,000th Tree and Awards $9.4 Million for Climate Projects
New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection is celebrating Climate Week by planting its 1,000th tree in Trenton as part of a community tree-planting program. The state is also awarding $9.4 million in grants to support various climate solutions across the state. These funds come from the Natural Climate Solutions Grant Program, which helps communities reduce emissions and adapt to climate change.
- DEPSep 21, 2026New Jersey expands program helping regions prepare for flooding and climate change
New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection is expanding its Resilient NJ program to three new regions, helping communities work together to protect homes, businesses, and infrastructure from flooding and climate impacts. The program brings together municipalities, community groups, and consultants to plan and invest in climate resilience. This expansion was announced during Climate Week 2026.