This bill amends existing laws regarding notice requirements for local land use hearings in New Jersey, increasing the notice period from 10 days to 21 days. Specifically, it revises R.S.40:49-6 to require that after an ordinance is introduced and passes its first reading, a copy of the ordinance and a notice of its introduction must be mailed to affected landowners at least 21 days prior to the final passage consideration. Additionally, the bill modifies several sections of P.L.1975, c.291, including sections 7.1, 7.2, 7.4, and 2 of P.L.1995, c.249, to establish the same 21-day notice requirement for various types of hearings, including those related to master plans, development regulations, and zoning ordinance amendments.

The bill also clarifies that failure to mail the required notice will not invalidate any ordinance, proceeding, or assessment. By enhancing the notice period, the bill aims to ensure that affected parties have adequate time to prepare for and participate in local land use hearings, thereby promoting transparency and public engagement in the decision-making process. The changes take effect immediately upon enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40:55D-62.1