The Home Business Jobs Creation Act aims to classify certain home businesses as permitted accessory uses within residential zones in New Jersey. The bill recognizes the growing trend of individuals working from home, particularly in light of recent economic challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic. It establishes that home businesses can operate without requiring a use variance, provided they meet specific criteria, such as being compatible with residential use, not generating excessive traffic or noise, and not creating any visible signs of a business. The act also clarifies that it does not override existing restrictions in common interest ownership communities and does not mandate municipalities to change their ordinances unless they conflict with the new provisions.
Additionally, the bill allows municipalities to set their own standards regarding the volume of guests and delivery traffic for home businesses, ensuring that these standards apply uniformly across similar businesses in the district. Importantly, the act maintains the authority of municipalities to protect the health, safety, and welfare of their residents, including addressing any nuisances that may arise from home business activities. Overall, the legislation seeks to support the growth of home-based businesses while balancing the needs of residential communities.