5 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 4 cities in Hudson County, New Jersey.
Verified from official government sources
Hudson County stormwater is governed by NJ DEP's Stormwater Management Rules N.J.A.C. 7:8 and Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permits. Jersey City and Hoboken operate MS4 programs requiring stormwater management for new development. Hoboken's flood-prone SW quadrant has invested heavily in Rebuild by Design green infrastructure. Combined sewer overflows (CSOs) are a chronic issue.
Hudson County construction sites must implement erosion and sediment control under the Hudson-Essex-Passaic Soil Conservation District oversight and NJ DEP Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Act (N.J.S.A. 4:24-39). Projects disturbing 5,000+ sq ft require certified plans. Silt fencing, stabilized entrances, and inlet protection are standard on Jersey City and Hoboken sites.
Hudson County's 20+ mile waterfront along the Hudson River, Newark Bay, Kill Van Kull, and Hackensack River is heavily regulated under NJ's Waterfront Development Act (N.J.S.A. 12:5-3) and CAFRA (Coastal Area Facility Review Act) N.J.S.A. 13:19-1. NJ DEP Land Use Regulation approval required for most waterfront projects. Public access along the Hudson River Walkway is mandated. Wetlands and tidelands heavily protected.
Hudson County has significant FEMA-designated flood zones, particularly along the Hudson River waterfront and Newark Bay. Hurricane Sandy (2012) caused catastrophic flooding throughout the county. Properties in FEMA Zone AE require flood insurance if they have federally backed mortgages. Hudson County participates in NFIP and has adopted floodplain management ordinances. The county and municipalities have adopted post-Sandy resilience measures.
Hudson County grading and drainage work requires permits under NJ UCC and local engineering codes. Jersey City requires grading permits for excavation/fill over 50 cubic yards. Hoboken's flood zone requires special drainage engineering. Drainage cannot be redirected to neighboring properties. Retaining walls over 4 feet need separate engineering permits.
4 cities in Hudson County have their own environmental rules rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
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Hudson County Ordinance Hub →