Cherry Hill's Environmental Rules: The Rules That Matter

Cherry Hill maintains 24 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with environmental rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Cherry Hill falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Stormwater Management

Chapter 17 prohibits discharging anything other than stormwater to the Township's Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4). Domestic sewage, washwater, non-contact cooling water, and industrial waste may not enter storm drains.

Key details: Code: Cherry Hill Twp. Code Ch. 17. Max Fine: $500. Authority: Police + NJDEP.

Up to $500 per violation per Chapter 17. Multiple violations may also trigger NJDEP enforcement.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Cherry Hill actively enforces its stormwater management requirements.

Flood Zones

Cherry Hill Township enforces a Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance adopting the Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) identified by FEMA in the Flood Insurance Study Number 34007CV001C (Sept 28, 2007, last revised Aug 17, 2016) and the accompanying Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM).

Key details: Code: Cherry Hill Twp. Code Flood Damage Prevention. FIRM Study: 34007CV001C (rev. 2016). Permit: Required for any SFHA work.

Unpermitted floodplain construction triggers stop-work, possible demolition, and NFIP non-compliance issues for the entire community.

This is one of the stricter rules in Cherry Hill's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Cherry Hill is tougher than many cities when it comes to environmental rules. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Cherry Hill, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Cherry Hill can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.