NJ A4033

Expands the definition of "qualifying land" for rural microenterprise special permits to include preserved farms where portions were excluded from the deed of easement due to neighboring property encroachment, clouded title areas, or third-party purposes such as road rights-of-way or utility easements.

Under current law, farms with any portion excluded from preservation in the deed of easement are disqualified from applying for rural microenterprise permits; this bill creates exceptions for exclusions that benefit third parties rather than the landowner.

Rural microenterprise permits allow preserved farmland owners to operate small-scale businesses (such as bed and breakfasts, bakeries, woodworking shops, or veterinary practices) that are compatible with and incidental to agricultural use.

Permits are limited to one per farm, have a maximum 20-year duration, and restrict activities to a one-acre envelope with conditions on building modifications, parking (maximum 10 spaces), and employment (maximum 4 full-time employees plus owner).