On Jan. 20, 2026, the NJ Department of Environmental Protection adopted the NJ REAL rule
amendments, incorporating both the August 2024 proposal and the July 2025 Notice of
Substantial Change. This adoption significantly amended the Coastal Zone Management,
Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act, Flood Hazard Area Control Act, and Stormwater
Management rules. The updated rules also include “legacy” provisions, allowing certain
applications to be reviewed under the previous regulations for up to 180 days following adoption.
This legacy period expires on July 20, 2026. Read more.
NJPACT/REAL Rules Adopted
Published Wednesday, January 21, 2026