During coastal storms impacting the region, the Division of Coastal Engineering is responsible for conducting damage assessments along the state's 210-mile coastline from Raritan Bay in the north, along the Atlantic Coast to Delaware Bay in the south. Beach erosion, damage to dunes and shore protection structures as well as tidal flooding impacts are assessed and forwarded to the State Office of Emergency Management and the Governor's Office, when appropriate.

Additionally, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 12-6A and 13:19-16 et seq., the Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection is empowered to conduct emergency repairs to damage caused by erosion and storm. During major storm events, the Division coordinates emergency response activities with the State Office of Emergency Management, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.