Independence Township
City Zoning Code
City Zoning Code
ARTICLE VI
Environmental Impact Statements
§ 255-42 Intent.
It is the intent of this article to provide to an approving authority the authority to require the filing of an environmental impact statement in conjunction with an application for preliminary approval of a major subdivision or site plan.
§ 255-43 Definitions.
As used in this article, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
The Land Use Board of the Township of Independence unless the application for development is before the Board of Adjustment of the Township pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-1 et seq.[1]
[Amended 2-13-2007 by Ord. No. 2007-07]
A description and analysis of possible direct and indirect effects that development will have on the site itself as well as adjacent and noncontiguous areas with particular reference to the effect of the project on public safety, health and welfare, the protection of public and private property and the protection, preservation and enhancement of the natural environment.
Any plot, parcel or tract of land involved with a major development.
§ 255-44 Requirements; waiver of requirements.
A.
The approving authority may require the filing of an environmental impact statement for any application for preliminary major subdivision or site plan review.
B.
The approving authority may waive the requirement for the filing of an environmental impact statement upon application in writing with the submittal of the preliminary plat or application for development if the agency determines that the proposed development will not have a substantial impact on the environment or that the information submitted as part of the applicant's application is sufficient to evaluate the impact of the proposed development upon the environment.
§ 255-45 Preparation.
The applicant shall be responsible for the selection of a qualified person or persons to prepare the environmental impact statement. The approving authority may request confirmation as to the qualifications and experience of the preparer and may reject same if not reasonably satisfied with the preparer's qualifications.
§ 255-46 Required data.
The environmental impact statement shall be submitted with the application for preliminary approval unless a waiver is requested. Ten copies of the statement shall be submitted. The environmental impact statement shall contain information and analysis with respect to the following:
A.
Location of the project.
B.
Description of the project.
C.
Existing land use and zoning of the project and adjacent area.
D.
An inventory of existing environmental conditions at the site and adjacent area, including air quality, noise, water quality, surface water drainage, water supply, hydrology, geology, soils, topography, vegetation, wildlife, wetlands and historical and archaeological features.
E.
A listing of licenses, permits or other approvals required by municipal, county or state law and the status of each.
F.
An assessment of the probable impact of the project, adverse and beneficial, on the topics listed in Subsection D above.
G.
An assessment of the probable impact of the project on Township roads, traffic, schools, community services and the tax base.
H.
A discussion of the methods to be utilized in regard to sewage and waste disposal and the effect of the former on groundwater.
I.
A discussion of the steps to be taken, during and after construction, both at the site and in the surrounding area, to minimize adverse environmental affects.
J.
A discussion of alternatives to the proposed project, including that of no project.