NJDEP – Division of Dam Safety and Flood Engineering

NJDEP – Division of Dam Safety and Flood Engineering

The Division of Dam Safety and Flood Engineering, a critical component of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), is headquartered at Station Plaza 5 in Trenton. This division is primarily responsible for protecting the public from the risks associated with flooding and dam failures. By administering state safety standards, the division oversees the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of dams and flood control projects throughout New Jersey.

Flood Control and Resilience

The division manages comprehensive programs designed to mitigate flood hazards, including:

• Floodplain Management: Coordinating with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and helping municipalities develop ordinances to reduce flood risks.
• Coastal Engineering: Overseeing shore protection projects, beach nourishment, and the construction of bulkheads and seawalls to combat coastal erosion.
• Flood Risk Analysis: conducting hydraulic studies and mapping to identify flood-prone areas and inform development decisions.

Dam Safety Regulation

A key function of this office is the regulation of dams to ensure their structural integrity. The Bureau of Dam Safety reviews engineering plans for new dam construction and rehabilitation of existing structures. They conduct regular safety inspections of dams classified as high-hazard to prevent catastrophic failures that could endanger lives and property downstream.

Access and Permitting

As a state government facility, the offices at 501 East State Street are secure. Visitors must present valid identification and pass through security screening upon entry. While the division handles technical engineering reviews and permits for flood hazard areas, most applications and document submissions are processed electronically or via mail. Property owners and engineers seeking guidance on flood maps or dam safety compliance are encouraged to contact the bureau by phone or utilize the NJDEP online data tools before visiting in person.