JACKSON, NJ – The Jackson Township Council has approved Ordinance No. 2026-05, creating a new chapter of municipal code regulating the placement, permitting, and maintenance of portable toilets across the township. The measure, now designated as Chapter 164, aims to protect public health and safety while reducing neighborhood nuisances caused by improperly maintained or placed portable sanitary units.
“The purpose of this Chapter is to establish reasonable regulations for the placement, permitting, and maintenance of portable sanitary facilities in order to protect the public health, safety, and welfare,” the ordinance states.
Permits required for placement
Under the new law, no one may place or use a portable sanitary facility — often referred to as a porta-john or portable toilet — without first obtaining a permit from the township’s zoning officer. A plot plan showing the proposed location must accompany each application.
While permits are generally required, the ordinance allows a limited exemption for portable toilets located exclusively in a rear yard. Those units are still subject to a permit but are not required to pay the associated fee.
All portable toilets must meet strict setback requirements: 15 feet from the front property line, and at least 10 feet from side and rear property lines. Units must also be positioned to avoid blocking sidewalks, driveways, or public rights-of-way.
Time limits and fees
Permits for construction sites are valid for 60 days and may be renewed if work remains ongoing and no permanent bathroom facilities exist on-site. For non-construction properties, such as event sites or private gatherings, a property owner may obtain up to three 10-day permits per year, with at least a 10-day gap between each.
The township also created an emergency provision allowing a portable toilet to be placed on weekends or holidays when an urgent need arises, provided the owner applies for the required permit on the next business day.
A $50 fee applies to each initial permit and renewal, consistent with the township’s established fee schedule.
Maintenance and enforcement
The ordinance sets clear maintenance standards requiring all portable sanitary facilities to be cleaned regularly, secured upright, and kept free of graffiti or overflow. Units must remain in sanitary condition and comply with all health and safety codes.
Code enforcement officers are authorized to inspect and cite violators. Fines for noncompliance can reach $500, and the township retains the authority to order the immediate removal of any facility deemed a hazard, nuisance, or unpermitted structure.
Key takeaways:
- Permits required for all portable toilets, including on private property
- Units must meet setback and sanitation standards
- Violations can result in fines up to $500 and forced removal
The ordinance gives Jackson officials new tools to address complaints about long-term or poorly maintained portable toilets, ensuring that temporary sanitary facilities remain just that — temporary, clean, and properly managed.