FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Jersey Increases One Call Violation Settlement to $5,590 to Strengthen Gas Infrastructure Safety
Effective Date: February 21, 2025
Trenton, NJ – The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) has announced a significant increase in the initial offer of settlement for violations of the state’s One Call law—from $3,000 to $5,590, effective February 21, 2025. The adjustment aims to improve compliance and enhance protection of underground gas infrastructure across the state.
The One Call law, part of New Jersey’s Underground Facility Protection Act, requires anyone planning excavation or digging to contact 811 before beginning work. This ensures buried utilities are properly marked to prevent damage, service outages, and serious safety hazards.
“This increase reflects New Jersey’s commitment to keeping our communities safe,” said an NJBPU spokesperson. “By modernizing the penalty structure, we’re ensuring that safe digging remains a top priority for all contractors and homeowners.”
The previous $3,000 settlement amount had been in place since 2000. The new $5,590 figure aligns more closely with inflation over that time and underscores the state’s tougher enforcement stance. In addition to raising the settlement offer, NJBPU plans to expand multilingual outreach and educational programs to help reduce accidental utility damages.
Key Highlights:
- New Settlement Offer: $5,590 for One Call law violations involving gas infrastructure.
- Effective Date: February 21, 2025.
- Purpose: Increase deterrence and strengthen public safety.
- Additional Measures: Expanded educational outreach and updated settlement guidelines.
The NJBPU encourages all excavators, contractors, and property owners to call 811 before digging. Compliance with One Call laws not only prevents costly penalties but also saves lives and protects critical underground utilities.
For more information, visit:
🔗 nj1-call.org
🔗 nj.gov/bpu