What condition must be met for a municipality to require a developer to contribute to off-tract improvements?

The correct answer emphasizes that the requirement for a developer to contribute to off-tract improvements is fundamentally linked to the needs outlined in the comprehensive master plan. In New Jersey, planning law allows municipalities to establish development regulations that support planned infrastructure and community enhancements. These regulations must align with the comprehensive master plan, which assesses the needs of the community, identifies areas for growth and improvement, and helps guide future development.

When a municipality determines that off-tract improvements—such as road enhancements, utilities, or public facilities—are necessary to support new development, this determination must be grounded in the comprehensive master plan. This ensures that the contributions are relevant and beneficial for the broader community, rather than being arbitrary or solely based on individual developer agreements or the results of potential legal actions. Thus, the alignment with the comprehensive master plan is a critical condition that justifies requiring developers to make these contributions.