Municipal Plan Endorsement is a voluntary review process designed to ensure the coordination of State, county and municipal planning efforts in achieving the goals and policies of the State Planning Act (Act). The State Development and Redevelopment Plan (State Plan) is the blueprint for achieving these goals and provides the template for coordination. The endorsement process expands upon the requirements of the Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL) (N.J.S.A. 40:55D-1 et seq.) and incorporates current State policies, regulations and priorities with respect to addressing emerging land use-related issues such as climate change resilience and environmental justice to further advance the principles of smart growth, sustainability, and equitable prosperity for all of New Jersey’s municipalities and residents. 

It is through Plan Endorsement that local, county and State governments may work together to develop coordinated capital investment and planning implementation mechanisms that are consistent with the State Plan and with each other. Completion of the Plan Endorsement requirements makes the petitioner eligible for a host of benefits provided by State agencies.