Excavation permits and rules in New Jersey

Anyone digging in New Jersey has to notify New Jersey One Call before work starts. Call 811 at least 3 business days, and no more than 10, before digging.^1-3

Text of the law

The notice period under N.J.S.A. 48:2-73 to 48:2-91; N.J.A.C. 14:2: Not less than three business days and not more than 10 business days prior to the beginning of the excavation or demolition.^1-3

New Jersey licenses contractors through the Division of Consumer Affairs (home improvement contractor registration); Department of Labor and Workforce Development (public works contractor registration). Registration is needed for any home improvement job, including work on the home's lot, at any price, and for any public works contract. Registration: home improvement contractor businesses must register annually under N.J.S.A. 56:8-138, and public works contractors must register under N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51; there is no state license for commercial excavation or site work.¹

Text of the law

Any home improvement work on residential property, including the part of the lot devoted to residential use (no dollar threshold); any public works contract.¹

A stormwater permit is needed at 1 acre, or less than 1 acre if part of a larger plan of development or sale; state soil erosion and sediment control certification applies to disturbance of more than 5,000 sq ft. Coverage is under the NJPDES Construction Activity Stormwater General Permit 5G3 (NJG0088323).^{1, 4}