Edison, NJ Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

Section 32-3.1 states the purpose bluntly: preserve trees and woodlands from unjustifiable destruction, preserve soil from erosion and sedimentation, and protect the use and transfer of topsoil for the well-being of Edison residents and downstream neighbors. Section 32-3.2 backs that up with the permit trigger: clearing that leaves more than 5,000 square feet barren of vegetative cover, or any bulldozing, earth moving, filling, leveling, grading, or pipe and cable laying that disturbs soil, requires a land disturbance permit first.

Section 32-3.3 exempts home gardening, farming approved by the Freehold Soil Conservation District, and a single-family dwelling with accessory structures disturbing under 5,000 square feet, but that home exemption disappears if the lot sits on a slope of 10% or more or within 50 feet of a stream or flood hazard area. The appointed officer, the Township Engineer, can void any exemption where the activity would likely cause erosion or sedimentation and demand corrective plans. Applications tied to a subdivision, site plan or building permit are reviewed together with input from the Freehold Soil Conservation District where state law requires it; standalone applications go to the Environmental Commission, which has 15 days to make a non-binding recommendation, and standalone permits expire after six months unless extended. Section 32-3.9 lets the Township require a performance guarantee, and Section 32-3.10 authorizes a stop-operations order if work strays from the certified plan, plus withholding of certificates of occupancy until erosion control compliance is confirmed. Fees under Section 32-3.11 run $10 with a building permit outside Soil Conservation District certification, or $50 for the first acre, $10 per acre from one to 20 acres, and $5 per acre beyond that, when no building permit, subdivision or site plan is involved.