New Jersey Legionella Laws: Key Requirements

New Jersey legionella compliance has taken a major step to reduce Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks with the passage of P.L. 2024, c.66. This legislation targets sources of Legionella—from cooling towers and whirlpools to potable water systems—and mandates stricter water management programs. In this article, we’ll break down the key points of the new law, explain who’s affected, and outline how to stay compliant.

Legionellosis in New Jersey

Legionnaires’ disease cases in the state have spanned multiple sources. Cooling towers, plumbing fixtures, and other water systems that produce aerosols have all been linked to infections. With no federal law governing Legionella prevention, New Jersey decided to enact its own rules to protect public health.

Key Changes for Public Water Utilities

Effective March 2026

1. Minimum Disinfectant Residuals:
   • Free chlorine at 0.3 mg/L, or
   • Monochloramine at 1.0 mg/L
2. Distribution System Management Plan:
   • All drinking water utilities must create and follow this plan.
   • Annual certifications must be submitted to the NJ Department of Environmental Protection.
3. Customer Notifications:
   • Required if there’s an increased Legionella exposure risk.
4. Penalties:
   • Violations, including failure to maintain disinfectant levels, can result in fines.

New New Jersey Legionella Compliance for Buildings

Effective Date: September 12, 2025
By December 2026, certain facilities must have a water management program (WMP) that follows ASHRAE 188 guidelines. This includes:

• Hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other health-care facilities
• Residential high-rises with six or more floors using centralized hot water
• Buildings with 25+ shared units for transient stays, like hotels or motels
• Senior or disability housing with 25+ units using a centralized water-heater system
• Buildings with a cooling tower, whirlpool, spa, pool, or any system releasing water aerosols
• Properties that have been linked to previous Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks

Implementing Water Management Programs

Under P.L. 2024, c.66, buildings subject to the new rules must:

1. Follow ASHRAE 188: Use its framework to develop and maintain a Legionella prevention plan.
2. Test for Legionella pneumophila: Sample and analyze the water regularly.
3. Post Public Notices: Clearly indicate that a WMP is in place.
4. Maintain Records: Keep documentation ready for agencies like the Department of Health or Environmental Protection.

Penalties and Enforcement of New Jersey Legionella Compliance

Non-compliance can be costly. Owners face fines up to $2,000 for a first offense and $5,000 for subsequent ones. If a violation leads to serious injury or death, penalties can reach $10,000. These measures underscore the high priority New Jersey places on preventing Legionnaires’ disease.

Timeline at a Glance

• March 2026: Public water utilities must finalize their distribution system management plans.
• September 2025: Law takes effect for building owners and operators.
• December 2026: Deadline for implementing a water management program in affected buildings.

Looking Ahead For New Jersey Legionella Compliance

Experts recommend that building owners and managers monitor updates from the Department of Health and DEP. As other states watch New Jersey’s approach, more legislation could follow nationwide. Staying proactive is crucial to avoid fines, protect occupants, and ensure water safety.

With cases of Legionellosis on the rise, New Jersey’s new legislation offers a clear path to safer water systems. By adopting ASHRAE 188 best practices, maintaining disinfectant residuals, and implementing robust water management programs, property owners and utilities can significantly reduce Legionella risks. Act now to meet these deadlines and keep your facility on the right side of compliance. If you’re unsure where to start, consult water treatment experts or local health authorities for guidance.