New Jersey Professional Planner Practice Exam

To understand why the answer is 20%, it's important to recognize how zoning ordinance changes can be influenced by community input. In New Jersey, if property owners within a specific area feel strongly against a proposed zoning change, they have the ability to voice their objections, which can impact the decision-making process.

When at least 20% of property owners within the affected area sign objections to the proposed zoning ordinance change, this triggers a requirement for a two-thirds majority vote by the governing body to approve the ordinance. This threshold serves as a protective measure for property owners, ensuring that a significant level of community opposition can lead to a more rigorous review of the proposed changes.

Understanding this process emphasizes the importance of community involvement in zoning matters. The 20% threshold illustrates the balance between facilitating development and protecting the interests of property owners who may be affected by such changes in land use regulations. This framework enhances governance by ensuring that significant concerns from property owners are taken into account during decision-making processes.