The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) announced two virtual public engagement sessions for the proposed Inland Flood Protection Rule on Wednesday, October 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and Thursday, October 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Department is holding these sessions to provide an additional opportunity for attendees to better understand the basis, specifics, and implications of river flood threat protections statewide as well as engage in conversation regarding considerations in implementing changes in elevation and flood hazard standards to protect public safety.
The NJDEP commissioned two New Jersey-specific studies that confirm precipitation has increased in the state over the past 20 years and will continue to increase through the end of this century. The proposed Inland Flood Protection Rule would require applicants for certain development permits to use precipitation data generated by these studies when calculating peak flow rates of streams and rivers for permits under the Flood Hazard Area Control Act Rules, N.J.A.C. 7:13, as well as when proposed development triggers compliance with the DEP’s Stormwater Management rules, N.J.A.C. 7:8.
Municipalities will also need to utilize the precipitation data generated by these studies when considering stormwater designs for residential development. Municipalities will need to update their local ordinances before these new requirements will apply to non-residential developments at the municipal level. Register for October 19 or October 20 today.