Rental Registration — New Jersey
State and city registration requirements for landlords and rental properties
State-Level Registration
Agency: Municipal Clerk (varies by municipality)
Renewal: Annual (varies)
Fee: Varies by municipality (typically $25-$75/unit)
New Jersey requires rental registration with the municipal clerk in most townships under N.J.S.A. 46:8-28. The Certificate of Registration must be provided to tenants at lease signing. Failure to register can prevent landlords from pursuing evictions. Each municipality sets its own fees and renewal schedule. Contact your municipal clerk for specific requirements.
City Programs in New Jersey
Many cities in New Jersey have local rental registration, licensing, or inspection programs even when the state has no statewide requirement. Common examples in New Jersey:
Contact your local city or county housing authority to determine if registration is required in your municipality.
Lead Paint Disclosure (Federal)
Federal law (42 U.S.C. § 4852d) requires landlords to disclose known lead-based paint hazards in housing built before 1978. Required for all states, regardless of local rules.
- Provide the EPA-approved lead hazard information pamphlet ("Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home")
- Disclose any known lead-based paint or hazards in writing
- Include a lead paint disclosure attachment in the lease
- Allow tenant up to 10 days for lead inspection before signing lease
Governing Statute
New Jersey Anti-Eviction Act (N.J.S.A. §§ 2A:18-61.1 et seq.) + Truth in Renting Act
This tool provides legal information, not legal advice. Nothing on this site creates an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.