New Jersey Coastal Development (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: N.J.S.A. 13:19-1
Code: N.J.A.C. 7:7
Regulator: NJ DEP
Coverage: Coastal zone statewide

Full Breakdown

Under N.J.S.A. 13:19-1 et seq. (CAFRA), the Department of Environmental Protection regulates development in a defined coastal area stretching from Cheesequake to Cape May and up the Delaware Bay. Any qualifying residential, commercial, or industrial project requires a CAFRA permit applying uniform Coastal Zone Management Rules at N.J.A.C. 7:7. Municipalities may enforce stricter rules but cannot waive CAFRA review or override state coastal standards. The Waterfront Development Act and Wetlands Act create parallel state-level controls.

Violations & Penalties

Building without a required CAFRA permit can lead to DEP fines, removal orders, daily penalties, and restoration requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a CAFRA permit for a beach house addition?

Many residential additions and new homes in the coastal zone require a CAFRA permit; small projects may qualify for a general permit-by-rule under N.J.A.C. 7:7.

Can a shore town let me skip CAFRA review?

No. CAFRA review is a state DEP function; municipalities cannot waive it, though they may impose additional local zoning requirements.

New Jersey CAFRA Coastal Area Facility Review Act

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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