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Bill > S4642
NJ S4642
NJ S4642Permits single exit stairwells in certain new residential buildings under State Uniform Construction Code.
summary
Introduced
06/23/2025
06/23/2025
In Committee
06/23/2025
06/23/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
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 permits municipalities to allow single exit stairwells in new residential buildings under specific conditions. The bill defines a "Group R-2 occupancy" as a residential building with multiple dwelling units where occupants are primarily permanent residents. Under this legislation, municipalities can adopt an ordinance to permit a single exit stairway in residential buildings of six stories or less, even though this would typically conflict with existing state construction codes. The first floor of such a building can be used for non-residential purposes, but only if those purposes are classified as nonhazardous and have separate entrances from the residential floors. The bill applies only to new residential development applications submitted after the bill's effective date. Additionally, the Commissioner of Community Affairs is required to create and publish a regulatory guidance document, including a model ordinance, to help municipalities implement these provisions. The bill will take effect on the first day of the fourth month following its enactment, with the Commissioner allowed to take preparatory actions in advance to ensure smooth implementation.
Committee Categories
Housing and Urban Affairs
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee (on 06/23/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4642 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/S5000/4642_I1.HTM |
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