Trenton, NJ – Did you know? It’s illegal to clam in New Jersey on Sunday.
A new bill introduced in the New Jersey General Assembly would carve out an exemption to the state’s long-standing ban on Sunday clam harvesting, allowing certain commercial aquaculture operators to collect clams one day a week that is currently off-limits.
Assembly Bill A4047, sponsored by Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese of Bergen and Passaic counties, was introduced February 12 for the 2026–2027 legislative session. The measure would amend R.S.50:2-11 and supplement Title 50 of the Revised Statutes.
Under existing law, no person may dredge or collect shellfish on lands under tidal waters before sunrise, after sunset, or at any time on Sunday, with limited geographic exceptions. The proposed legislation would create a specific exemption for licensed clam aquaculturists.
The bill defines a “clam aquaculturist” as a person or entity holding a valid commercial shellfish aquaculture permit who is directly engaged in clam aquaculture, including breeding, raising, harvesting, stocking, feeding, transplanting, and marketing clams in controlled environments.
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The exemption would allow Sunday harvesting only under strict conditions.
- Harvesting must occur between sunrise and sunset
- Activity must take place on State-leased aquaculture lands
- Clams must be taken strictly for commercial sale
Limited exemption for commercial aquaculture
The measure specifies that Sunday harvesting must be conducted for “commercial purposes,” meaning for sale, not for trade, barter, or personal consumption. All other applicable regulations governing clam harvests would remain in effect.
The bill also preserves the authority of the Department of Environmental Protection, in consultation with the Shellfisheries Council, to adopt rules governing the harvest of aquacultured shellfish on Sundays during specific times, in designated areas, and using approved methods.
Supporters say the change would align shellfish aquaculture operations with modern commercial practices while maintaining regulatory oversight of tidal waters and leased grounds.
For broader coverage, see New Jersey shellfish aquaculture laws.
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