Affordable Housing

Departments / Land Development

In New Jersey, municipalities are legally obligated to provide their “fair share” of affordable housing as part of a constitutional mandate stemming from the Mount Laurel decisions. Affordable housing refers to housing that is made available at a price point that is affordable to individuals and families whose income is below the regional median, as defined by the State of New Jersey. It includes a mix of rental and ownership options and may be integrated into market-rate developments or stand alone in designated projects.

Chatham Township is committed to meeting its affordable housing obligations in a manner that:

Preserves the character of our neighborhoods
Ensures responsible land use planning
Protects taxpayers from costly litigation
Engages the community in a transparent, fair process

We strive to balance compliance with state mandates while maintaining the quality of life that residents value.

New Jersey’s affordable housing obligations are based on a series of court decisions (known as the Mount Laurel doctrine) and implemented through cycles called “Rounds.” Municipalities must identify and plan for affordable housing needs through a combination of:

Zoning strategies
Housing rehabilitation programs
Inclusionary developments

Fourth Round (2025–2035)

Currently, municipalities are engaged in planning for the Fourth Round (2025–2035). Click here to learn more about the Fourth Round and Chatham Township’s efforts in this process.

Questions?

We encourage residents to reach out with questions or attend public meetings where housing matters are discussed.

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The Municipal Housing Liaison is responsible for coordinating all the activities of the municipal government as it relates to the Township’s Affordable Housing Program. The Township Administrator currently serves as the Municipal Housing Liaison.

To inquire about Affordable Housing availability in Chatham Township, please contact the Administrative Agent. Piazza & Associates are the Administrative Agent. Piazza & Associates can be reached by calling 609-786-1100 x300 or email to [email protected]

The Administrative Agent is an independent entity serving under contract to and reporting to the municipality. The primary responsibility of the Administrative Agent is to establish and enforce affordability controls and ensure that units in their portfolio are sold or rented, as applicable, to eligible households. The administrative agent shall perform the duties and responsibilities of an administrative agent as set forth in UHAC, , which includes: affirmative marketing, household certification, affordability controls, resales and rentals, processing requests from unit owners, and enforcement.

Affordable Housing