JACKSON, NJ – The Jackson Township Council has introduced Ordinance No. 2026-01, a new local law aimed at regulating property managers operating within the township. The measure, which creates Chapter 319 of the municipal code, requires anyone managing rental properties to register annually with the township and hold a valid New Jersey real estate license.
Town officials say the new rule is designed to protect tenants, landlords, and residents by ensuring property managers meet state licensing standards and follow township regulations. “It is the intent of the Township Council to protect tenants, property owners and the residents of Jackson Township by ensuring that all property managers responsible for managing rental properties within the Township be registered,” the ordinance states.
Annual registration and state licensing required
Under the new code, all individuals or entities who collect rent, maintain properties, screen tenants, or otherwise manage residential or commercial properties must register with the Township Clerk within 30 days of starting operations. Property managers already working in the township must comply within 30 days of the ordinance taking effect.
To qualify for registration, managers must provide proof of a valid New Jersey real estate license issued under state law (N.J.S.A. 45:15-1). Each registration must include the manager’s full name, contact information, supervising broker details, and a list of properties managed within Jackson Township.
The ordinance also establishes an annual registration fee of $100 per property manager, due by January 30 each year.
Penalties for noncompliance
Violations of the new property management code could carry steep fines. Anyone conducting property management activities without proper registration or licensure could face penalties of up to $1,000 for a first offense and $2,500 for subsequent offenses.
Town officials emphasized that the measure aligns local oversight with state licensing laws, ensuring that unlicensed or unqualified individuals cannot operate as property managers within the township’s limits.
Protecting tenants and property owners
The ordinance grants local officials the authority to verify licensure, track who manages properties in the community, and take enforcement actions against those operating outside compliance. Township leaders believe the system will help maintain better housing standards and accountability.
Key takeaways:
- All property managers must register with the Jackson Township Clerk annually
- Proof of a valid New Jersey real estate license is required for registration
- Violations can result in fines up to $2,500 for repeat offenses
The ordinance will take effect after official publication and public notice, giving local property managers time to comply with the new licensing and registration requirements.