Which of the following governs land use planning in municipalities across New Jersey?

The correct answer is NJSA 40:55D, which is the New Jersey Statutes Annotated that specifically addresses land use planning and development in municipalities. This statute, known as the Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL), outlines the framework for municipal planning, zoning regulations, land use procedures, and the roles and responsibilities of planning boards and zoning boards of adjustment.

Under NJSA 40:55D, municipalities are given the authority to develop master plans, adopt zoning ordinances, and create land use regulations that promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the community. This statutory framework is essential for guiding the organized growth and development of municipalities, ensuring that land use is managed in a manner that is consistent with local needs and priorities.

The other options pertain to different aspects of municipal governance. NJSA 40A:4 deals with municipal budgets and financial procedures, NJSA 40A:2 relates to the municipality's ability to incur debt, and NJSA 26 covers health and vital statistics. While these statutes play important roles in municipal operations, they do not specifically govern land use planning like NJSA 40:55D does. This underscores why the Municipal Land Use Law is the relevant statute for understanding land use