The NJDEP Recently Launched an Electronic Submission System for New Jersey Developers Applying for Certain Land-Use Permits
New Jersey developers can now apply for certain land-use permits through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s (NJDEP) E-Submissions system. The new system went online on May 1, 2019.
Streamlining Environmental Permit Requirements
Previously, the New Jersey Electronic Environmental (E2) Reporting System facilitated the electronic submission of certain reports to the NJDEP, such as Electronic Drinking Water Reports (DWR) related to the Safe Drinking Water Act; New Jersey Quantitation Limit (NJQL) reports for Office of Quality Assurance lab certification program; and Private Well Testing Reporting under the Private Well Testing Act (PWTA). However, most other documents had to be filed in paper form.
The move to e-filing is part of a larger initiative by Gov. Phil Murphy’s administration to modernize government services, including streamlining and digitizing the permitting process. The first iteration of the NJDEP’s system will be incorporated into the NJDEP’s existing permitting portal. Future updates and improvements are planned, the agency said.
Overall, the NJDEP is hoping that online filing will increase transparency and ease paperwork, while also reducing costs for the regulated community. It should also allow developers to more readily check the status of their applications and speed up the NJDEP’s decision-making process.
“This system will hold applicants to the same rigorous environmental requirements we have always expected while helping us do our job more effectively,” Deputy Commissioner Debbie Mans said. “It will also reduce costs for businesses and residents while greatly enhancing transparency by providing all information uploaded into the system to the public through the DEP’s online database system.”
NJDEP’s New E-Submissions System
The E-Submissions system will be available for the filing of all major land use permits, including all Flood Hazard Area Individual Permits and General Permits, all Freshwater Wetlands Individual Permits and General Permits, all Coastal Zone Management and Waterfront Development Individual Permits and General Permits, all Meadowlands District Water Quality Certificates, and Flood Hazard Verifications that come in as part of a permit application.
Applicants will initially be able to submit applications either online or by mail, which gives the public the opportunity to become familiar with the system and for the DEP to fine-tune it. In 2020, submitting applications through the online system will become mandatory, following formal rulemaking.
The new E-Submissions system queries the user on a series of questions. Users will be able to stop, save and return to their application at a later time. Buttons will be available that users can access to learn more or better understand questions. Users will be unable to proceed in the system if they don’t provide certain information.
“This system is designed to be easy to use and is similar in design and setup to popular online tax-preparation programs and will help significantly reduce mistakes and common errors that can cause problems,” the NJDEP stated. The agency also stated that the new process will essentially ensure that applications are administratively complete by the time they’re submitted.
When Are New Jersey Business Owners Personally Liable for Corporate Debt?
New Jersey personal guaranty liability is a critical issue for business owners who regularly sign contracts on behalf of their companies. A recent New Jersey Supreme Court decision provides valuable guidance on when a business owner can be held personally responsible for a company’s debt. Under the Court’s decision in Extech Building Materials, Inc. v. […]
Commercial real estate trends in 2026 are being shaped by shifting economic conditions, technological innovation, and evolving tenant demands. As the market adjusts to changing interest rates, capital flows, and workplace models, investors, owners, tenants, and developers must understand how these trends are influencing opportunities and risk in the year ahead. Overall Outlook for Commercial […]
One Big Beautiful Bill: New Tip Income Tax Rules Employers & Workers Need to Know
Part 2 – Tips Excluded from Income Certain employees and independent contractors may be eligible to deduct tips from their income for tax years 2025 through 2028 under provisions included in the One Big Beautiful Bill. The deduction is capped at $25,000 per year and begins to phase out at $150,000 of modified adjusted gross […]
One Big Beautiful Bill: New Overtime Tax Rules Employers and Employees Need to Know
Part 1 – Overtime Pay and Income Tax Treatment Overview This Firm Insights post summarizes one provision of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” related to the tax treatment of overtime compensation and related employer wage reporting obligations. Overtime Pay and Employee Tax Treatment The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) generally requires that overtime be paid […]
New York’s FAIR Business Practices Act: What the New Consumer Protection Measure Means for Your Business
In 2025, New York enacted one of the most consequential updates to its consumer protection framework in decades. The Fostering Affordability and Integrity through Reasonable Business Practices Act (FAIR Act) significantly expands the scope and strength of New York’s long-standing consumer protection statute, General Business Law § 349, and alters the compliance landscape for New York […]
How to Reduce Legal Risk as Your New Jersey Business Grows in 2026
For many New Jersey businesses, growth is a primary objective for the New Year. However, it is important to recognize that growth involves both opportunity and risk. For example, business expansion often results in complex contracts, an increased workforce, new regulatory requirements, and heightened exposure to disputes. Without proactive planning, even routine growth can lead […]
No Aspect of the advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court. Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
Sign up to get the latest from our attorneys!
Explore What Matters Most to You.
Consider subscribing to our Firm Insights mailing list by clicking the button below so you can keep up to date with the firm`s latest articles covering various legal topics.
Stay informed and inspired with the latest updates, insights, and events from Scarinci Hollenbeck. Our resource library provides valuable content across a range of categories to keep you connected and ahead of the curve.
Let`s get in touch!
Sign up to get the latest from the Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC attorneys!
