The following is a list of significant milestones in the development and adoption of the Highlands Regional Master Plan.
- 1992 – The U.S. Forest Service, in cooperation with New York and New Jersey representatives, issue a report on the Highlands, serving as an impetus to move forward efforts in protecting the natural resources of the New Jersey Highlands.
- 2002 – The U.S. Forest Service study is updated, finding an 11 percent increase in population in from 1990 to 2000.
- August 10, 2004 – The Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act was enacted by the State Legislature of New Jersey. The Act mandates the Highlands Council create a Regional Master Plan to, “protect and enhance the significant values of the resources” of the Highlands.
- November 30, 2006 – The Highlands Council votes to release the Draft Regional Master Plan for public comment.
- May 11, 2007 – The public comment on the Draft Regional Master Plan period closes.
- November 19, 2007 – The Highlands Council votes to release the Final Draft of the Regional Master Plan for Public Comment.
- November 30, 2007 – The 90-day public comment period for the Final Draft RMP begins.
- February 28, 2008 – Public comment period closes.
- July 17, 2008 – Regional Master Plan approved by Highlands Council.
- September 8, 2008 - Regional Master Plan becomes effective.