How long does a planning board have to act on preliminary site plan approvals for plans of less than 10 acres or 10 dwelling units?

In New Jersey, the timeframe for a planning board to act on preliminary site plan approvals for developments that include plans of less than 10 acres or fewer than 10 dwelling units is established by the state’s Municipal Land Use Law. Specifically, the law stipulates that a planning board must render a decision within 45 days. This requirement is intended to ensure that applicants receive timely feedback on their proposals, facilitating a more efficient development process.

Understanding this timeframe is crucial for planners and developers, as it sets clear expectations for project timelines and helps in scheduling and resource allocation. Moreover, adherence to this timeframe is essential for maintaining compliance with state regulations. If a planning board fails to act within this period, the application can be deemed approved by default, which underscores the importance of timely decision-making in the planning process.