New Jersey Adopts Coastal Building Rules to Address Sea Level Rise

New Jersey adopted the Resilient Environments and Landscapes regulations in January to update coastal construction standards and land-use rules. The rules require new shore homes and substantial remodels to be built four feet higher than current federal flood standards and create inundation risk zones based on sea-level rise projections.

The regulations also mandate stricter analysis of projects in flood zones, improved stormwater management, and greater protections for wetlands and tidal marshes. They allow a window until mid-July for some projects to proceed under previous standards.

At least four counties—Cape May, Monmouth, Cumberland, and Ocean—have sued the state Department of Environmental Protection, arguing the agency exceeded its authority. The New Jersey Business & Industry Association and the New Jersey Builders Association have appealed to the New Jersey Appellate Division, contending the rules are too burdensome.

Senate President Nicholas Scutari introduced a resolution that would block the new measures.

According to the New Jersey Climate Change Resource Center, sea level at the Jersey Shore has risen 18 inches since the early 1900s. Scientists project a possible 4.4-foot increase by 2100. Construction of million-dollar condos continues in Asbury Park, luxury homes in Seaside Park, and townhouses in Somers Point near areas flooded during Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

Danielle McCulloch of the American Littoral Society said the state reduced the added height requirement from five feet to four feet last year based on revised data. Peter Kasabach of New Jersey Future said the regulations represent the next step in managing climate change and development.

Tapp said Somers Point has installed valves, pumping stations, and bulkheads and has about 360 homes and townhouses planned for construction.