N.J. Stat. § 40:49-27b
Within 10 days after the filing of the petition, the municipal clerk shall examine the same and ascertain whether or not it is signed by the requisite number of qualified voters, and shall attach its certificate showing the result of the examination. If the petition is insufficient, the clerk shall return the petition to the person filing it. The petition may be amended and refiled within 10 days after the receipt thereof from the clerk. Within 10 days after receiving an amended petition, the clerk shall examine the petition. If the petition is sufficient, the clerk shall submit it to the governing body of the municipality without delay, and shall take all necessary steps required by R.S. 40:49-10 and this amendatory and supplementary act for the scheduling of an election on the ordinance. If the petition is not sufficient, the clerk shall return it to the person filing it, and the ordinance shall become operative immediately or on the 20th day following publication of the ordinance after final passage, as appropriate.
N.J.S. § 40:49-27b