All utility service, except potable water, shall be connected
to an approved public utility system, where one exists, if applicable
and approved by the public utility. The connection of private water
systems to public systems shall be optional. The connection of alternate
energy sources should be made to public energy sources to insure continued
service at desirable levels. The use or disposal of wastes from alternate
sewerage treatment facilities should comply with existing local, state
and federal regulations.
The developer shall arrange with the servicing utility for the
underground installation of the utilities distribution supply lines
and service connections in accordance with the provisions of the applicable
standard terms and conditions incorporated as a part of its tariff
as the same are then on file with the State of New Jersey Board of
Public Utility Commissioners.
The developer shall submit to the reviewing board, prior to
the granting of final approval, a written instrument from each serving
utility which shall evidence full compliance or intended full compliance
with the provisions of this section; provided, however, lots which
abut existing streets where overhead electric or telephone distribution
supply lines and service connections have heretofore been installed
may be supplied with electric and telephone service from those overhead
lines, but the service connections from the utilities overhead lines
shall be installed underground. In the case of existing overhead utilities,
should a road widening, or an extension of service, or other such
condition occur as a result of the development and necessitate the
replacement, relocation or extension of such utilities, such replacement,
relocation or extension shall be underground.
Where natural foliage is not sufficient to provide year-round screening of any utility apparatus appearing above the surface of the ground, other than utility poles, the applicant shall provide sufficient live screening to conceal such apparatus year-round. All screening shall be in accordance with Article
26, Buffers and Screening, of this chapter.
On any lot where by reason of soil conditions, wooded area,
or other special condition of land, the applicant deems it a hardship
to comply with the provisions of this chapter, the developer may apply
to the reviewing board for an exception from the terms of this chapter.
Where overhead lines are permitted as the exception, the alignments
and pole locations shall be carefully routed to avoid locations along
horizons, avoid the clearing of swaths through wooded areas by selective
cutting and a staggered alignment, by planting trees in open areas
at key locations to minimize the views of the poles and alignments,
by following rear lot lines and other interior locations, and similar
design and location considerations to lessen the visual impact of
overhead lines.
Any installation under this chapter to be performed by a servicing
utility shall be exempt from requiring performance guarantees, but
shall be subject to inspection and certification by the municipal
engineer.