JACKSON, N.J. — Jackson Township Council President Jennifer Kuhn announced plans for an updated landlord registration ordinance aimed at cracking down on illegal rentals and improving enforcement across the township.
Speaking during a recent council session, Kuhn said the revised ordinance will be formally introduced at the July 8 council meeting. The proposal includes increasing the landlord registration fee from $125 to $225, effective January 2026, and implementing an annual renewal requirement each January.
“These changes are projected to bring in an additional $300,000 in revenue,” Kuhn stated, adding that she recommends creating a dedicated subline for a new department and task force to manage the funds and oversee rental property enforcement.
Kuhn outlined a plan to use the revenue to staff two full-time code enforcement officers and one secretary responsible for conducting annual inspections of rental units. These inspections would cover smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and general safety compliance. The officers would be authorized to issue certificates of occupancy and conduct inspections throughout a rolling 12-month cycle.
The ordinance will also propose daily fines of $250 for landlords who refuse to register or deny access for inspections. Additionally, maintaining accurate contact information for landlords, property managers, or tenants would be required to support inspection access and enforcement.
“It’s time we all put a clear enforceable system in place to address residents’ concerns and protect the quality of life in Jackson,” Kuhn said.
If approved, the ordinance would mark a significant step in formalizing oversight of rental properties in the growing Ocean County township.