The Ocean County Board of Commissioners has launched an informational website to address concerns about the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s proposed Resilient Environments and Landscapes (NJ REAL) regulations. The site provides details on the state’s proposal, its potential effects on residents, and includes an interactive mapping tool that allows users to see if their property may be impacted.
“These proposed rules will significantly impact homeowners, businesses, and municipalities throughout Ocean County, many of which are still recovering from the long-term effects of Superstorm Sandy,” said Deputy Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners Frank Sadeghi. “We are concerned that NJ REAL will have a significant economic impact on the economy of Ocean County and impede the growth in economic activity that the County is experiencing and will experience over the next twenty five years.”
According to county officials, NJ REAL would introduce stricter construction requirements, expand flood zone designations, and increase permitting thresholds. These changes could result in higher costs for homeowners who may need to invest large sums to comply with new standards. There are also concerns about declining property values and insurance availability.
“NJ REAL presents a complete overreach in scope, a lack of equity in implementation, and an absence of appropriate federal consultation or consideration for our coastal communities,” said Commissioner Robert S. Arace.
Officials argue that the rulemaking process has not included enough transparency or engagement with local leaders. They note that municipal and county authorities have not been sufficiently consulted or prepared for what they describe as far-reaching consequences.
The commissioners also highlight that NJ REAL’s reach extends beyond coastal areas. Communities across New Jersey—including inland towns and riverfront neighborhoods—would be classified under new flood risk zones. This could lead to increased insurance premiums, lower property values, and higher building costs for public facilities such as schools and hospitals.
“As a County whose population inflates to over one million people during the summer months, we need to be conscious of not just our year-round residents but our seasonal visitors as well,” said Commissioner Virginia E. Haines. “NJ REAL will have an effect on a significant portion of New Jersey’s population, and we need better explanation as to how this will impact all of our towns.”
County officials warn that renters may face higher housing costs if landlords pass along compliance expenses. Businesses could also raise prices for consumers due to increased operating costs.
“Ocean County’s local economies lean heavily on our tourism industry,” said Commissioner Jennifier Bacchione. “The damage these rules could do to our small businesses and residents will have a lasting impact. We need climate resilience solutions that are smart, equitable, and achievable, not ones that force people out of their homes or erode the economic foundation of our towns.”
Residents can access more information about NJ REAL regulations—and use an interactive map—at https://co.ocean.nj.us/frmStopNJREAL.aspx.
