N.J. Admin. Code § 7:7-12.16 - Overhead transmission lines

(a) Overhead transmission lines are wires hung between supporting pylons for transmission from the site of origin to the site of consumption. Overhead transmission lines include electrical, telecommunication and cable television lines.

(b) Overhead transmission lines are prohibited over open bays, semi-enclosed and back bays, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs as defined at N.J.A.C. 7:7-12.1. Overhead transmission lines are discouraged over large rivers as defined at N.J.A.C. 7:7-12.1.

(c) Overhead transmission lines are conditionally acceptable over rivers, streams, creeks, and tidal guts as defined at N.J.A.C. 7:7-12.1, provided:

1. There is a demonstrated need that cannot be satisfied by existing facilities;

2. There is no feasible alternative route that avoids crossing water bodies;

3. The transmission line provides adequate vertical clearance for masts; and

4. Visual impacts are minimized to the maximum extent practicable.

(d) Rationale: Overhead transmission lines produce a negative environmental impact because they are aesthetically unattractive. They are prohibited or discouraged because the visual impact is so great that it counters the scenic resources and design rule at N.J.A.C. 7:7-16.10. The use of underground transmission lines, however, minimizes the visual impacts. Siting overhead transmission lines over such narrow water bodies as rivers, streams, creeks, and tidal guts is conditionally acceptable where there is no alternative to crossing the water body because the aesthetic impacts would not be as severe as the impacts of siting transmission lines over wider water bodies.

Notes

N.J. Admin. Code § 7:7-12.16

Renumbered from N.J.A.C. 7:7E-4.15 by 47 N.J.R. 1392(a), effective 7/6/2015 Amended by 50 N.J.R. 361(a), effective 1/16/2018