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Bill > S2968
NJ S2968
NJ S2968Permits single exit stairwells in certain new residential buildings under State Uniform Construction Code.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 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 allows local governments to permit single exit stairways in new residential buildings with up to six stories that are classified as "Group R-2 occupancy," meaning they contain sleeping units or more than two dwelling units where people live permanently. This is a change from current rules under the State Uniform Construction Code, which may require more than one exit. The bill also permits the first floor of these buildings to be used for non-residential purposes, as long as it's a "nonhazardous occupancy" (meaning it doesn't pose a significant risk) and has separate entrances from the residential floors. These new rules will only apply to development applications submitted after the bill becomes law, and the Commissioner of Community Affairs will provide guidance and a sample ordinance to help municipalities implement these changes.
Committee Categories
Housing and Urban Affairs
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee (on 01/13/2026)
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/2026/S2968 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S3000/2968_I1.HTM |
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