Bill > A3555

This bill requires a mandatory pest infestation inspection and certification before demolishing a building that is located within 10 feet of another property. The inspection must be conducted by a local health officer or a commercial pesticide applicator certified by the Department of Environmental Protection, no earlier than 60 days prior to obtaining a construction permit. If a "severe pest presence" is found, the inspector must take steps to mitigate the pest problem to acceptable levels before demolition can proceed. The bill defines pests as rats, mice, roaches, or other animals or insects designated by the Commissioner of Environmental Protection as posing a significant risk of infesting adjacent properties. Certifications must be filed with local construction officials, and if a pesticide applicator performs the inspection, the local health officer can review and potentially disapprove the certification. The inspection and certification requirements do not apply to buildings with no closely-situated structures or in cases of imminent structural collapse. The construction permit applicant is responsible for all inspection, certification, and potential extermination costs. The bill also mandates that relevant state agencies develop detailed regulations for implementing these requirements within six months of the act's enactment.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A3555