Is Airbnb legal in Jersey City?

Airbnb Regulations in Jersey City

Jersey City has established specific regulations governing short-term rentals, which are detailed in Chapter 255 of the city's ordinances. Here's a concise overview of the key rules:

1. Eligibility and Restrictions:

   • Short-term rentals can only be managed by homeowners, not tenants.
   • Rentals are strictly prohibited in rent-controlled units.
   • Homeowners are allowed to rent out their primary residence and up to two additional units in the same building they own, but they are limited to a maximum of 60 nights per year when they are not present at the property.

2. Permit Requirement:

   • Homeowners must obtain a short-term rental permit from the Division of Housing Preservation to operate legally.
   • The application must be completed for each rental property, even if they are owned by the same person.

3. Application Process:

   • A registration fee of $250 is required at the time of application, with a subsequent annual renewal fee.
   • Documentation needed includes proof of ownership, proof of primary residency, recent utility bills, and general liability insurance coverage of at least $500,000.

4. Contact Information:

   • Applicants must provide contact information for the rental property’s responsible party and agent, ensuring they are reachable 24/7.

5. Parking and Inspection Requirements:

   • Detailed parking information must be included in the application, outlining available off-street and on-street parking options.
   • Properties are subject to an inspection for compliance with safety and maintenance standards before a permit is issued.

6. Exemptions for Existing Rentals:

   • Operators who were running short-term rentals prior to June 25, 2019, may maintain existing bookings until January 1, 2021, although they cannot accept new guests.

Overall, the regulations in Jersey City reflect a balance between encouraging short-term rentals while addressing community concerns, safety, and maintaining housing availability for residents. Potential hosts should ensure they fully understand these regulations and stay compliant to avoid penalties.