reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1K-34 - Purpose of program

13:1K-34. Purpose of program
The hazardous material discharge training program shall be designed to enable its participants to competently:
a. Verify if a hazardous material discharge has occurred;
b. Identify the type and amount of the hazardous material;
c. Insure timely notification of the discharge incident to the appropriate municipal, county and State officials;
d. Know the responsibilities of municipal, county and State organizations in dealing with hazardous materials;
e. Know the appropriate precautions to safeguard the public health and safety until specialized hazardous material response personnel arrive; and
f. Communicate the required notification information to all other municipal representatives who may potentially receive the initial call regarding a hazardous material discharge.
L. 1987, c. 220, s. 2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1K-35 - Annual appropriation for continued implementation of program

13:1K-35. Annual appropriation for continued implementation of program
There shall be annually appropriated to the Division of State Police in the Department of Law and Public Safety from the General Fund such sums as the Legislature deems necessary to continue implementing this act. The division and the Department of Environmental Protection shall approve the expenditure of any such funds, including the funds appropriated pursuant to section 3 of this act.
L. 1987, c. 220, s. 4.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1K-36 - Findings, declarations, determinations relative to sale, use, burning of creosote.

13:1K-36 Findings, declarations, determinations relative to sale, use, burning of creosote.
1. The Legislature finds and declares that creosote, commonly used as a wood preservative to repel insects and prevent rot and water damage of wood and wooden structures, is a hazardous substance, is recognized by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as a carcinogen and regulated as a restricted-use pesticide, and is composed of over 300 chemicals known to pose a threat to the environment and human health; that leakage of creosote from industrial and other hazardous waste sites and seepage from in-use creosote-treated wood have led to the contamination of soil and groundwater; and that ingestion of water, plant material, or animal tissues contaminated with creosote or absorption of creosote through the skin may result in skin irritation, chemical burns, convulsions and mental confusion, liver or kidney disease, damage to the nervous or reproductive systems, development of skin cancer, or, in extreme cases, death.
The Legislature therefore determines that it is in the public interest to prohibit the sale, use, and burning of creosote and creosote-treated wood products.
L.2007, c.113, s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1K-37 - "Creosote," "utility company" defined.

13:1K-37 "Creosote," "utility company" defined.
2. As used in this act:
"Creosote" means the substance produced by the high temperature treatment of coal tar and used primarily as a wood preservative.
"Utility company" means any public utility company as defined by R.S.48:2-13.
L.2007, c.113, s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1K-38 - Sale, use of certain creosote products prohibited.

13:1K-38 Sale, use of certain creosote products prohibited.
3. On or after July 1, 2007 neither creosote nor any wood or other product treated with or containing creosote shall be sold, offered for sale, or used in this State. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the removal, demolition or repair of existing structures that contain products treated with or containing creosote.
L.2007, c.113, s.3.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1K-39 - Burning, disposal of certain creosote products prohibited.

13:1K-39 Burning, disposal of certain creosote products prohibited.
4. On or after July 1, 2007 neither creosote nor any wood or other product treated with or containing creosote shall be burned in any manner in this State, including in fireplaces and stoves, or shall be disposed of in this State, except in a landfill properly lined to prevent groundwater contamination.
L.2007, c.113, s.4.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1K-40 - Inapplicability of act.

13:1K-40 Inapplicability of act.
5. The provisions of this act shall not apply to:
a. the operation, use or maintenance of railroad and railroad shipping facilities, including but not limited to, the right of way, tracks, track siding, team tracks and bridges; or
b. the operation, use or maintenance of any new or existing power pole or facility owned or used, in whole or in part, by any utility company.
L.2007, c.113, s.5.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1K-41 - Violations, penalties, civil actions.

13:1K-41 Violations, penalties, civil actions.
6. a. Any person who violates this act shall be subject to a civil penalty of $500 for the first offense and $1,000 for the second or subsequent offense, to be collected in a civil action by a summary proceeding under the "Penalty Enforcement Law of 1999," P.L.1999, c.274 (C.2A:58-10 et seq.). If the violation is of a continuing nature, each day during which it continues shall constitute an additional, separate and distinct offense.
b. The Department of Environmental Protection may institute a civil action for injunctive relief to enforce this act and to prohibit and prevent a violation of this act, and the court may proceed in the action in a summary manner.
L.2007, c.113, s.6.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1K-42 - Rules, regulations; temporary waivers.

13:1K-42 Rules, regulations; temporary waivers.
7. a. The Department of Environmental Protection shall adopt, pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), rules and regulations, as appropriate, to implement the provisions of this act.
b. The department shall have the authority to temporarily waive the provisions of this act on a case by case basis if it is determined by the department to be necessary to meet the construction and reconstruction need as a result of a declared state of emergency. The waiver, once granted by the department, shall expire within one year after receipt of the waiver.
L.2007, c.113, s.7.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-2 - Legislative findings and declarations

13:1L-2. Legislative findings and declarations
The Legislature finds and declares that the acquiring, planning, designing, developing, operating and managing of the State parks and forests is in the best interest of the citizens of this State and that the provision of recreational programs to all segments of the public enhances the public health, prosperity and general welfare and is a proper responsibility of the State. The Legislature further finds and declares that forested lands in the State should be managed to maximize the public benefit from the State's forest resources.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-3 - Definitions.

13:1L-3 Definitions.
3. For the purposes of this act:
"All-terrain vehicle" means the same as the term is defined pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1973, c.307 (C.39:3C-1).
"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Environmental Protection.
"Department" means the Department of Environmental Protection.
"Dirt bike" means any two-wheeled motorcycle that is designed and manufactured for off-road use only and that does not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or United States Environmental Protection Agency on-road emissions standards.
"Forest resources" means those renewable products and reusable resources of all forest lands in the State, including but not limited to trees, timber, shrubs, and other vegetation, and the value of forest lands relating to recreation, wilderness appreciation, aesthetic appeal, and soil fertility.
"Green Acres program" means the program for the purchase of land for recreation and conservation purposes pursuant to P.L.1961, c.45 (C.13:8A-1 et seq.), P.L.1971, c.419 (C.13:8A-19 et seq.), P.L.1975, c.155 (C.13:8A-35 et seq.), any Green Acres bond act, and P.L.1999, c.152 (C.13:8C-1 et seq.).
"Recreational activities" includes, but is not limited to, fresh and salt water swimming, water skiing, boating and fishing, ice skating, snow skiing, camping, trail hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, bicycling, court and field games, track and field events, birdwatching, playground activities, and golf.
"Snowmobile" means the same as the term is defined pursuant to section 1 of P.L.1973, c.307 (C.39:3C-1).
"State parks and forests" means all State owned or leased lands, waters and facilities administered by the Department of Environmental Protection, including, but not limited to, parks, forests, recreational areas, marinas, historic sites, burial sites, and natural areas, but not including wildlife management areas or reservoir lands.
L.1983, c.324, s.3; amended 2009, c.275, s.35.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-4 - Powers

13:1L-4. Powers
The department shall acquire, plan, design, construct, operate and maintain State parks and forests and shall have the power to:
a. Install permanent improvements for the health and comfort of the public;
b. Install permanent improvements for the protection, development or maintenance of lands or properties;
c. Acquire, lay out, construct and maintain roads and trails:
(1) over the State park and forest lands and acquire lands;
(2) between or connecting any separate portions of such lands;
(3) from points on such land up to, but not including, other public roads outside of and adjacent to such lands;
d. For the purposes of this section, acquire rights of way upon and across any intervening lands;
e. Vacate and close any municipal street or any portion of a municipal street that is solely bordered by State property when closure is necessary to protect the public interest;
f. Sell or exchange forest products or products reasonably related to recreational activities on State park and forest land.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 4, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-5 - Duties

13:1L-5. Duties
The department shall:
a. Provide recreational activities and programs within State parks and forests for the benefit of the State's citizens;
b. Strive to provide recreational opportunities to all segments of the State's population and may provide transportation for urban residents to the State parks and forests;
c. Conduct and promote cultural activities, such as plays, movies and exhibits, at State parks and forests and at other locations throughout the State;
d. Prepare and implement a master plan and a management plan for each State park and forest.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 5, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-5.1 - Duties of commissioner relative to designation of sites.

13:1L-5.1 Duties of commissioner relative to designation of sites.
38. a. Within three years after the date of enactment of P.L.2009, c.275 (C.39:3C-3.1 et al.), the Commissioner of Environmental Protection shall:
(1) designate and make available three sites on State-owned land for the use of snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, and dirt bikes, one each in the northern, central, and southern part of the State; and
(2) adopt, pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), rules and regulations governing the use of the sites designated pursuant to paragraph (1) of this subsection. These rules and regulations shall seek to minimize any detrimental effects on the environment that may be caused by snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, and dirt bikes, and shall protect public safety.
b. In designating the sites for the use of snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, and dirt bikes pursuant to subsection a. of this section, the commissioner shall determine the most suitable location for the sites. The preferred location shall be on lands that are not State parks and forests, wildlife management areas, or reservoir lands. The commissioner shall consider: impacts to wildlife, biota, natural resources and forest resources, and water quality; the potential impacts on other authorized recreational activities that occur within State parks and forests, wildlife management areas, and reservoir lands; and public safety.
c. The sites designated pursuant to subsection a. of this section may be the same sites as the commissioner may designate pursuant to section 14 of P.L.1973, c.307 (C.39:3C-14).
d. If the commissioner is unable to designate and make available three sites for the use of snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, and dirt bikes pursuant to subsection a. of this section, the commissioner shall submit a report to the Governor and, pursuant to section 2 of P.L.1991, c.164 (C.52:14-19.1), to the Legislature detailing the reasons why sites have not been designated.
L.2009, c.275, s.38.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-6 - Grant of authority to operate facilities for private profit; acquisition of interest in lands

13:1L-6. Grant of authority to operate facilities for private profit; acquisition of interest in lands
a. Notwithstanding any other law, rule or regulation to the contrary, the department shall have the authority to grant such rights or privileges to individuals or corporations for the construction, operation and maintenance for private profit of any facility, utility or device upon the State parks and forests, lands and waters as the department shall find necessary and proper for the use and enjoyment of the lands by the public. Such rights and privileges shall include, but not be limited to, concessions, franchises, licenses, permits and other rights and privileges deemed by the department to be appropriate in the utilization of the lands for the public benefit. The grant or award of such rights or privileges shall be made in the name of the State of New Jersey and executed by the department, at such price and upon such terms and conditions as shall be fixed by the department.
b. The department shall have the authority to acquire rights and privileges in lands owned by individuals or corporations where the department deems it necessary or useful, for the proper implementation of the provisions of this amendatory and supplementary act, that an interest in such lands be acquired. Such rights and privileges shall include, but not be limited to, leases, licenses, concessions, franchises and permits. Any rights or privileges acquired hereunder and the considerations therefor shall be subject to terms and conditions fixed by the department.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 6, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-7 - Powers of department

13:1L-7. Powers of department
7. a. For the purposes of acquiring, holding, managing or developing lands or other properties for a State park or forest, the department shall have the power to enter, inspect, survey, investigate ownership and take title to, in fee or otherwise, by purchase, gift, devise, exchange, or eminent domain, any appropriate lands of the State that would be useful as a State park or forest.
b. The power of eminent domain shall extend to all rights, interests and easements in any property in the State.
c. The department shall exercise its power of eminent domain in accordance with the "Eminent Domain Act of 1971," P.L.1971, c.361 (C.20:3-1 et seq.) and section 28 of P.L.1999, c.152 (C.13:8C-28).
d. Whenever the department wishes to acquire, by eminent domain, title to unoccupied lands and it appears that such title may be defective in any manner, the department may, with the consent of the Attorney General, acquire the best available title, notwithstanding that such title is defective or incomplete.
e. For purposes of P.L.1983, c.324 (C.13:1L-1 et seq.), the department may acquire by gift, grant or by payment of tax lien any municipal lands that have been acquired by the municipality through the foreclosure of a tax lien pursuant to chapter 5 of Title 54 (Taxation).
f. (Deleted by amendment, P.L.1999, c.152).
g. No title or interest in any of the lands or properties acquired or held by the department for the purposes of P.L.1983, c.324 (C.13:1L-1 et seq.) shall be subject to be taken by condemnation proceedings through the power of eminent domain.
L.1983,c.324,s.7; amended 1989, c.347; 1999, c.152, s.49.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-8 - Authority to exchange lands

13:1L-8. Authority to exchange lands
8. The department shall have the authority to sell, lease or exchange any lands or any interest therein, except those lands or interests acquired pursuant to the Green Acres program, for the acquisition of any other lands or interests therein for incorporation into the State park and forest system. Any such sale, lease or exchange shall be executed in accordance with P.L.1993, c.38 (C.13:1D-51 et al.).
L.1983,c.324,s.8; amended 1993,c.38,s.8.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-9 - Closing of park; removal of persons

13:1L-9. Closing of park; removal of persons
The department may close a State park or forest or may remove any person from a State park or forest without legal procedure if the department determines that it is in the interest of the State to do so.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 9, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-10 - Destruction of park property, archaeological findings, sites prohibited.

13:1L-10 Destruction of park property, archaeological findings, sites prohibited.
10. a. (1) Except as may be provided pursuant to subsection c. or subsection d. of this section, no person may alter, deface, destroy, disturb, or remove any State park or forest property, whether man-made or natural, or any animal, or any archaeological findings on State park or forest property or which are held by the department pursuant to the provisions of P.L.1983, c.324 (C.13:1L-1 et seq.), without the written permission of the department. As used in this section, "archaeological findings" shall include, but need not be limited to, relics, objects, fossils, or artifacts of an historical, prehistorical, geological, paleontological, archaeological or anthropological nature.
(2) No person may sell, transfer, exchange, transport, purchase, receive or offer to sell, transfer, exchange, transport, purchase or receive any archaeological findings originating in a State park or forest property without the written permission of the department.
b. No person may litter or abandon any material on State park or forest property held pursuant to the provisions of P.L.1983, c.324 (C.13:1L-1 et seq.).
c. The department shall provide for exceptions to the prohibitions concerning archaeological findings set forth in subsection a. of this section for archaeological findings of de minimis value innocently discovered on any State park or forest property.
d. No provision of this section shall be construed to restrict or affect in any way fishing, hunting, trapping, or other such activities or related activities otherwise authorized or permitted on State park or forest property by the Department of Environmental Protection.
e. Notwithstanding any provision of this section to the contrary, examination or retrieval of artifacts, or scientific research, conducted by a State department, agency, commission, authority or corporation otherwise required or permitted by federal or State law are exempt from the provisions of this section.
L.1983,c.324,s.10; amended 2004, c.170, s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-11 - Shooting or trapping of birds at High Point State Park and New Jersey Veterans Memorial prohibited; preservation of Island Beach State Park.

13:1L-11 Shooting or trapping of birds at High Point State Park and New Jersey Veterans Memorial prohibited; preservation of Island Beach State Park.
11. a. In specific regard to High Point State Park and New Jersey Veterans Memorial, the department shall not allow the shooting or trapping of birds on park grounds, other than that of vermin, and then only by authorized representatives of the State.
b. As Island Beach State Park is a unique recreational resource and is highly valued for its topography, flora and fauna, it shall be preserved, maintained and improved in such a manner as the department determines will best perpetuate the present physical state.
L.1983, c.324, s.11; amended 2019, c.99, s.3.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-11.1 - Findings, declarations relative to designating High Point State Park as High Point State Park and New Jersey Veterans Memorial.

13:1L-11.1 Findings, declarations relative to designating High Point State Park as High Point State Park and New Jersey Veterans Memorial.
1. The Legislature finds and declares that:
a. In 1918, the New Jersey Department of Conservation and Development proposed the creation "on the Kittatinny Mountains in Sussex and Warren counties a great forest park for the benefit of the whole people."
b. In 1920, Director Alfred Gaskil of the Division of Parks and Forestry suggested "that the park be established as the State's memorial to its sons who had made the supreme sacrifice in the Great War."
c. Colonel Anthony Kuser deeded his mountaintop summer estate at High Point to the State in 1923 for a public park and avian sanctuary.
d. In November 1927, Colonel Kuser further donated $500,000 to erect a granite-clad obelisk on New Jersey's highest peak to honor the veterans of all wars.
e. The High Point Monument was dedicated to the "Glory and Honor and Eternal Memory of New Jersey's heroes by land, sea, and air, in all wars of our Country" in June 1930.
f. Although the High Point Monument is one of the most visible and best known landmarks in the State, and is a symbol of the State's parks and forests, the purpose for which it was built has diminished over time, and the surrounding park is only known by the name High Point State Park.
g. It is therefore appropriate to rename the entire park to match the honoring of veterans for which the iconic monument was dedicated, and thereby show respect to the men and women who have given their lives to protect this country.
L.2019, c.99, s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-11.2 - High Point State Park designated as High Point State Park and New Jersey Veterans Memorial.

13:1L-11.2 High Point State Park designated as High Point State Park and New Jersey Veterans Memorial.
2. a. High Point State Park is designated as High Point State Park and New Jersey Veterans Memorial.
b. The Department of Environmental Protection, through its Division of Parks and Forestry, shall alter its official publications to reflect this designation, and shall make expeditious efforts to replace any existing signs, advertisements, or any other public indicators of the park's name to reflect this designation.
L.2019, c.99, s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-12 - Free admission for certain individuals to State parks, forests.

13:1L-12 Free admission for certain individuals to State parks, forests.
12. a. The department shall not charge an admission fee for entrance into a State park or forest by any resident of the State of 62 or more years of age or who is totally disabled or who is an active member of the New Jersey National Guard who has completed Initial Active Duty Training. The department shall prescribe by regulation the types of evidence that may be used to qualify persons for the benefits of this subsection.
b. The department shall not charge a disabled veteran a fee to obtain, replace, or renew a permit to operate a motorized vehicle on a State park beach.
c. As used in this section :
"Disabled veteran" means any resident of the State who has been honorably discharged or released under honorable circumstances from active service in any branch of the Armed Forces of the United States and who has been declared by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, or its successor, to have a service-connected disability of any degree.
"Initial Active Duty Training" means Basic Military Training, for members of the New Jersey Air National Guard, and Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training, for members of the New Jersey Army National Guard.
L.1983, c.324, s.12; amended 1993, c.304; 2019, c.398, s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-12.1 - Free admission for veterans, Gold Star family members to State park or forest.

13:1L-12.1 Free admission for veterans, Gold Star family members to State park or forest.
1. a. (1) The department shall not charge an admission fee for entrance into a State park or forest by any veteran during an event held by a veterans' organization. In addition, the department shall not charge a facilities fee of any kind to any veterans' organization using a State park or forest for an event.
(2) The department shall not charge an admission fee or facilities fee of any kind for entrance into a State park or forest by a person holding a driver's license or identification card with a Gold Star Family designation issued pursuant to section 1 of P.L.2013, c.165 (C.39:3-10f6) or section 2 of P.L.1980, c.47 (C.39:3-29.3), respectively.
b. As used in this section:
"Veteran" means any resident of the State now or hereafter who has been discharged honorably or under general honorable conditions in any branch of the Armed Forces of the United States, or a Reserve component thereof, or the National Guard of this State or another state as defined in section 1 of P.L.1963, c.109 (C.38A:1-1), or any honorably discharged member of the American Merchant Marine who served during World War II and is declared by the United States Department of Defense to be eligible for federal veterans' benefits; and
"Veterans' organization" means the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, or other veterans' organizations chartered under federal law, or any service foundation of such an organization recognized in its bylaws.
L.2007, c.275, s.1; amended 2017, c.175, s.3; 2019, c.500, s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-13 - Forest management program

13:1L-13. Forest management program
The department shall plan, develop and implement a forest management program for the forest resources of the State parks and forest and by providing technical information, advice and related assistance to promote the best technical management practices for public and private forest landowners and managers, vendors, forest operators, wood processors, public agencies and individuals regarding:
a. The harvesting, marketing and processing of timber and other forest resources and the development of maximum efficiency in the utilization of wood and wood products consistent with the principle of maintaining long-term, sustained yield of these products;
b. Conversion of wood to energy for domestic, industrial, municipal and other uses;
c. Management planning and treatment of forest land, including but not limited to, protection, site preparation, timber stand improvement, reforestation, prescribed burning and other practices designed to increase the quantity and improve the quality of timber and other forest resources;
d. Protection and improvement of: forest soil fertility; watersheds to enhance the quality and quantity of water yields; and beneficial effects of forest habitat on fish and wildlife.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 13, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-14 - Tree seeds and seedling trees; procurement, production and distribution

13:1L-14. Tree seeds and seedling trees; procurement, production and distribution
The department shall procure, produce and distribute tree seeds and seedling trees for the purpose of:
a. Establishing forests, windbreaks, shelterbelts, woodlots, and other plantings;
b. Developing genetically improved tree seeds;
c. Planting tree seeds and trees for the reforestation or forestation of lands suitable for the production of timber and other benefits associated with the growing of trees.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 14, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-14.1 - Definitions

13:1L-14.1. Definitions
1. As used in this act:
"Division" means the Division of Parks and Forestry in the Department of Environmental Protection.
"State entity" means a department, agency, or office of State government, including a State university or college, or an authority created by the State.
L.1993,c.106,s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-14.3 - Nonapplicability of act.

13:1L-14.3 Nonapplicability of act.
3. The requirements of P.L.1993, c.106 (C.13:1L-14.1 et seq.) shall not apply to activities:
a. that are deemed by the division to constitute standard forestry, wildlife management, or arboricultural practices, or to actively managed existing utility easements; or
b. conducted, or that are caused to be conducted, by the Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs at the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans' Memorial Cemetery.
L.1993, c.106, s.3; amended 2001, c.10, s.3; 2009, c.191.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-14.4 - Public forum to present plan for deforestation, reforestation by State entities

13:1L-14.4. Public forum to present plan for deforestation, reforestation by State entities
2. Whenever a State entity owns or maintains land on which an area of at least one acre in size is scheduled for deforestation, at least 180 days prior to the deforestation of the area the State entity shall hold at least one public forum within the municipality in which the deforestation is scheduled, or, if the forested area scheduled for deforestation spans more than one municipality, in any one of the municipalities in which deforestation is scheduled, to present its plan for deforestation and its plan for reforestation. The public shall be permitted to present oral and written comments to the State entity within a comment period of 60 days from the date of the forum. No more than 60 days after the comment period has closed, the State entity shall provide written responses to the comments presented.
Whenever a public process is already required by any other State or federal law, or any rule or regulation adopted pursuant thereto, for a project that includes forested land scheduled for deforestation, the State entity shall not be required to conduct a separate public forum to comply with the provisions of this section, provided that the public forum requirements established herein are also met at the public forum or hearing conducted pursuant to any other State or federal law. The State entity shall clearly advise the public in its agenda for the public forum that a reforestation plan will be presented. Copies of written responses to the public comments shall be provided by the State entity to the division at the close of the comment period.
L.2001,c.10,s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-15 - Protection of trees and wood from insects and disease

13:1L-15. Protection of trees and wood from insects and disease
The department shall protect from insects and diseases the trees and forests and wood products, stored wood, and wood in use in the State. This protection shall include, but not be limited to:
a. Conducting surveys to detect and evaluate insect infestations and disease conditions affecting forests and trees;
b. Determining the biological, chemical and mechanical measures necessary to prevent, retard, control or suppress incipient, potentially threatening or emergency insect infestation and disease conditions affecting trees;
c. Taking any other actions deemed necessary to protect the State's trees, forests and wood products from insects and diseases.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 15, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-16 - Fire protection; technical assistance to local government

13:1L-16. Fire protection; technical assistance to local government
The department shall:
a. Minimize the threat to life, property, and damage to forest resources through the use of appropriate fire prevention, presuppression and suppression practices;
b. Provide information and technical assistance to units of local government, including but not limited to Shade Tree Commissions and Soil Conservation Districts, to encourage urban and community forestry programs.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 16, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-17.1 - Short title

13:1L-17.1. Short title
1. Sections 1 through 9 of this act shall be known and may be cited as the "New Jersey Shade Tree and Community Forestry Assistance Act."
L.1996,c.135,s.1.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-17.2 - Findings, declarations relative to shade trees, forests in communities

13:1L-17.2. Findings, declarations relative to shade trees, forests in communities
2. The Legislature finds and declares that shade trees and forests are a necessary and important part of community and urban environments, and are critical to the environmental, social and economic welfare of the State; that the ability of all county and municipal governments to care for and manage their shade trees could be enhanced through technical and financial assistance from a State community forestry program; that local governments have experienced recurring and damaging exposure to litigation due to the drastic decline and poor condition of the State's community tree resource; that properly planned and implemented local community forestry programs can provide the necessary basis for local governments to reduce or eliminate liability associated with local tree care programs and shade tree commissions; and that the viability of county and municipal shade tree commissions is essential to the preservation and enhancement of the State's community tree resource.
The Legislature therefore determines that it is appropriate for the State to encourage, promote and assist in the establishment, retention and enhancement of shade tree and community forestry programs by local governments; and that it is altogether fitting and proper to establish a shade tree and community forest preservation license plate, the revenues from which would be dedicated to the support of a State community forestry program.
L.1996,c.135,s.2.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-17.3 - Definitions relative to community forestry

13:1L-17.3. Definitions relative to community forestry
3. As used in sections 1 through 9 of this act:
"Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Environmental Protection;
"Community forestry" means the planting, protection, care and management of trees and other related natural resources within a municipality or county;
"Department" means the Department of Environmental Protection;
"Local government" means a municipality, county or other political subdivision of the State, or any agency thereof;
"Shade tree commission" means a municipal body created pursuant to R.S.40:64-1 et seq. or a county body created pursuant to R.S.40:37-1 et seq.; and
"State Forester" means the State Forester designated pursuant to section 17 of P.L.1983, c.324 (C.13:1L-17).
L.1996,c.135,s.3.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-17.4 - "New Jersey Shade Tree and Community Forestry Program" established.

13:1L-17.4. "New Jersey Shade Tree and Community Forestry Program" established.
4. There is established in the Division of Parks and Forestry in the Department of Environmental Protection, under the supervision of the State Forester, the "New Jersey Shade Tree and Community Forestry Program," the purposes of which shall be to:
a. Assist local governments and shade tree commissions in establishing and maintaining community forestry programs and in encouraging persons to engage in appropriate and approved practices with respect to tree management and care;
b. Advise local governments and shade tree commissions in the development and coordination of policies, programs and activities for the promotion of community forestry;
c. Provide grants to local governments and shade tree commissions applying for assistance in the development and implementation of a comprehensive community forestry plan approved pursuant to section 7 of P.L.1996, c.135 (C.13:1L-17.7), to the extent monies are appropriated or otherwise made available therefor;
d. Educate citizens on the importance of trees and forests and their role in the maintenance of a clean and healthy environment;
e. Provide technical assistance, planning and analysis for projects related to community forestry;
f. Provide training assistance to local governments and shade tree commissions regarding community forestry issues such as tree diseases, insect programs and tree planting and maintenance; and
g. Provide volunteer opportunities for the State's citizens and organizations interested in community forestry activities.
L.1996,c.135,s.4.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-17.5 - Community Forestry Council, establishment, membership, powers

13:1L-17.5. Community Forestry Council, establishment, membership, powers
5. a. There is established in the department a Community Forestry Council, which shall consist of 20 members, appointed by the State Forester, all of whom shall be citizens with expertise or interest in trees, forestry, or tree or forest management, maintenance or care. Each of the members appointed shall serve for a term of three years and until a successor is appointed and qualified, except that of the members first appointed, seven shall serve terms of one year and seven shall serve terms of two years. All vacancies, except those created through the expiration of term, shall be filled for the unexpired term only, and in the same manner as the original appointment. Each member shall be eligible for reappointment, but may be removed by the commissioner or the State Forester for cause.
b. A majority of the membership of the council shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of council business. Action may be taken and motions and resolutions adopted by the council at any meeting thereof by the affirmative vote of a majority of the full membership of the council.
c. Members of the council shall serve without compensation, but may be reimbursed for expenses necessarily incurred in the discharge of their official duties.
d. The State Forester shall appoint a chairperson and vice-chairperson and the council may elect such other officers as may be necessary. The council may appoint such staff or hire such experts as it may require within the limits of appropriations made for these purposes.
e. The council may call to its assistance such employees as are necessary and made available to it from any agency or department of the State or its political subdivisions.
f. The council may adopt, pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), and in consultation with the department, any rules and regulations necessary to carry out its responsibilities pursuant to P.L.1996, c.135 (C.13:1L-17.1 et al.).
g. The council shall advise the State Forester, the Division of Parks and Forestry and the department on issues concerning community forestry and assist with such other functions as may be authorized pursuant to P.L.1996, c.135 (C.13:1L-17.1 et al.) or any other law.
L.1996,c.135,s.5.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-17.6 - Duties of State Forester

13:1L-17.6. Duties of State Forester
6. The State Forester, with the advice and assistance of the council, shall establish minimum standards, and provide a training skills and accreditation program, for representatives of local governments and shade tree commissions, the content of which shall be the appropriate and approved methods for the planting, protection, care and management of trees and other related natural resources under their control.
L.1996,c.135,s.6.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-17.7 - Development, distribution of comprehensive community forestry plan, approval

13:1L-17.7. Development, distribution of comprehensive community forestry plan, approval
7. a. The State Forester, with the advice and assistance of the council, shall develop and make available to local governments and shade tree commissions a list of guideline elements found within a comprehensive community forestry plan. These guidelines shall establish but not limit the basic framework of an approved plan. The State Forester, with the advice and assistance of the council, shall develop and make available to local governments and shade tree commissions a procedure for submitting for approval a comprehensive community forestry plan.
b. A local government may develop and submit to the State Forester for approval a comprehensive community forestry plan according to procedures established by the department.
c. The State Forester, after review and comment by the council, shall approve a comprehensive community forestry plan if all required parts of the plan adequately address the needs of the community and the tree resource.
L.1996,c.135,s.7.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-17.8 - Annual report on status of New Jersey Shade Tree and Community Forestry Program

13:1L-17.8. Annual report on status of New Jersey Shade Tree and Community Forestry Program
8. The commissioner, with advice from the State Forester, shall prepare an annual report on the status of the New Jersey Shade Tree and Community Forestry Program established pursuant to section 4 of P.L.1996, c.135 (C.13:1L-17.4), which shall also include any recommendations for legislative or administrative action to improve implementation of that act, and transmit that report to the Governor, the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the General Assembly, and the chairpersons of the Senate Natural Resources and Economic Development Committee, the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee, the Assembly Environment, Science and Technology Committee, and the Assembly Appropriations Committee, or the successors of those committees as designated respectively by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the General Assembly.
L.1996,c.135,s.8.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-17.9 - Rules, regulations

13:1L-17.9. Rules, regulations
9. The department shall adopt, pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L.1968, c.410 (C.52:14B-1 et seq.), such rules and regulations as may be necessary to implement P.L.1996, c.135 (C.13:1L-17.1 et al.), including establishment of:
a. Guidelines for development of a comprehensive community forestry plan;
b. Criteria for proper selection, planting and care of trees;
c. Procedures to accept and evaluate submitted comprehensive community forestry plans;
d. Procedures for the review and approval of training skills and accreditation programs in tree care and management for local officials;
e. Guidelines for the provision of technical assistance under the program to local governments and shade tree commissions in the formation of comprehensive community forestry plans; and
f. Criteria for ranking grant applications received from local governments and shade tree commissions applying for assistance in the development and implementation of comprehensive community forestry plans.
L.1996,c.135,s.9.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-18 - Publications

13:1L-18. Publications
The department may publish, from time to time, any information it deems to be in the public interest at a cost not to exceed that of publication and distribution.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 18, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-19 - Fees for services; rules and regulations

13:1L-19. Fees for services; rules and regulations
The department may, pursuant to the "Administrative Procedure Act," P.L. 1968, c. 410 (C. 52:14B-1 et seq.), charge and collect fees for any of the services it performs pursuant to the provisions of this amendatory and supplementary act, and adopt any other rules or regulations consistent with the provisions of P.L.1975, c. 363 (C. 13:1B-15.12a et seq.) necessary to carry out the provisions of this amendatory and supplementary act.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 19, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-20 - Employees

13:1L-20. Employees
The department may hire such employees as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this amendatory and supplementary act. Subject to the provisions of Title 11 (Civil Service), the department shall determine the compensation for the employees hired under this amendatory and supplementary act. The department shall employ the underprivileged, minorities and young people where appropriate.
L.1983, c. 324, s. 20, eff. Sept. 1, 1983.
2023 New Jersey Revised Statutes › Title 13 - Conservation and Development--Parks and Reservations › Section 13:1L-21 - Powert to arrest without warrant; authorization to carry firearm; law enforcement training program.

13:1L-21 Powert to arrest without warrant; authorization to carry firearm; law enforcement training program.
21. The commissioner of the department shall have the power to vest in State park police officers and other personnel of the department at all times the power to arrest without warrant any person violating any law of the State committed in their presence and bring the offender before any court having jurisdiction to receive the complaint of such violation. These personnel are hereby authorized to carry firearms at all times. The department, with the approval of the Attorney General, shall establish and maintain a law enforcement training program for such personnel.
L1983,c.324,s.21; amended 2003, c.147, s.2; 2005, c.216, s.2.