Mount Laurel Doctrine

The Mount Laurel Doctrine is a legal principle in New Jersey that requires local governments to provide enough affordable housing for residents of all income levels. It prevents municipalities from blocking or limiting affordable housing developments through their zoning laws. The goal is to ensure fair access to housing opportunities across different communities and prevent regional disparities or segregation. Essentially, it holds that towns must adequately plan for and accommodate a variety of housing options, including affordable units, to promote fair and balanced growth throughout the state.