Issuance of general permit

6. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, rule or regulation to the contrary, the commissioner is authorized to issue a general permit in lieu of a permit issued pursuant to section 5 of P.L.1973, c.185 (C.13:19-5). The department shall adopt rules and regulations which identify the activities subject to general permit review, and which establish the criteria for the approval or disapproval of a general permit issued pursuant to this section. The department shall approve, approve with conditions, or disapprove an application for a general permit pursuant to this section in accordance with P.L.1975, c.232 (C.13:1D-29 et al.). L.1993,c.190,s.6.