48:19-15.1 - Condemnation;  action against utility

48:19-15.1.  Condemnation;  action against utility
    Every water utility desiring to take, use or occupy any lands or to take or  divert any spring or stream of water necessary for the rendition of its public  utility service may exercise the power of eminent domain as provided in  sections 48 and 49 hereof to acquire such lands, right and privileges.

    If the owner of any real estate shall not have given his consent in writing  to the diversion, or diminution of such spring or stream, and the damage to the  real estate by reason of such diversion or diminution shall not have been  ascertained and paid pursuant to said chapter 1 of the Title 20, Eminent  Domain, then the owner may, by action at law, recover any damages he may  sustain by reason of such diversion or diminution.  Nothing in this section  shall be construed to limit or affect the power or jurisdiction of the  Department of Conservation and Economic Development.

     L.1962, c. 198, s. 59.