New Jersey law
Municipal Laws in New Jersey.
New Jersey local government operates under the 1947 Constitution and Revised Statutes. New Jersey has 21 counties and 564 municipalities (one of the highest municipality-per-capita counts in the U.S.). Municipalities operate under various statutory forms (Faulkner Act, walsh Act, Council-Manager, etc.). The Open Public Meetings Act (Sunshine Law) and Open Public Records Act (OPRA) govern transparency. The New Jersey Tort Claims Act (N.J.S.A. 59:1-1 et seq.) provides limited waiver of sovereign immunity with a 90-day notice requirement.
Last verified: 2026-04-17
State law
Key New Jersey Statutes
Permits municipalities to adopt one of several optional charter forms (Mayor-Council, Council-Manager, Small Municipality, Mayor-Council-Administrator) with home-rule authority.
Requires public meetings to be open with adequate notice. Closed sessions permitted for specified purposes (litigation, personnel, collective bargaining, real estate).
Governs access to public records. Agency must respond within 7 business days. Attorney fees available for successful challenges.
Limited waiver of sovereign immunity for state and local governments. Requires 90-day pre-suit notice. Damages limited for pain and suffering to cases involving permanent loss of bodily function, permanent disfigurement, or dismemberment resulting in medical expenses exceeding $3,600.
Governs zoning, subdivision, and site plan review. Creates Planning Boards and Zoning Boards of Adjustment.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in New Jersey.
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