Bill

Bill > A4972


NJ A4972

NJ A4972
Permits single exit stairwells in certain new residential buildings under State Uniform Construction Code.


summary

Introduced
10/21/2024
In Committee
02/10/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026

Introduced Session

2024-2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill would permit the governing body of a municipality to adopt an ordinance or resolution to allow a single exit stairway to serve a residential building of less than six stories for a Group R-2 occupancy, as defined in the bill, notwithstanding any provision of the "State Uniform Construction Code Act," P.L.1975, c.217 (C.52:27D-119 et seq.), the State Uniform Construction Code, or any other provision of law to the contrary. The bill specifies that the first floor of such a structure may be used for a purpose other than residential use, provided that use is classified by the Commissioner of Community Affairs as a nonhazardous occupancy and served by entrances that are separate from those serving the residential floors. The requirements of the bill would only apply to new applications for development of residential structures submitted on or after the effective date of the bill. The bill requires the Commissioner of Community Affairs to adopt a regulatory guidance publication for the governing body of a municipality and publish the guidance on the Internet website of the Department of Community Affairs, which is required by the bill to include a model ordinance for the governing body of a municipality to utilize when acting pursuant to the authority granted under the bill. The bill would take effect on the first day of the fourth month next following the date of enactment, except the Commissioner of Community Affairs would be permitted to take anticipatory action necessary to effectuate the provisions of the bill.

AI Summary

This bill would permit municipalities to adopt an ordinance or resolution to allow a single exit stairway in residential buildings of less than six stories, classified as Group R-2 occupancy, despite any provisions of the State Uniform Construction Code or other laws to the contrary. The first floor of such a building may be used for a non-hazardous commercial purpose, as long as it has separate entrances from the residential floors. The bill specifies that it applies only to new residential development applications submitted after the bill's effective date. It also requires the Commissioner of Community Affairs to provide regulatory guidance, including a model ordinance, to assist municipalities in implementing this authority.

Committee Categories

Housing and Urban Affairs

Sponsors (3)

Last Action

Reported out of Assembly Committee, 2nd Reading (on 02/10/2025)

bill text


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