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1. Why does a community need ordinances?

Ordinances are intended to create a reasonable standard for property maintenance. Ordinances are designed with quality of life, safety and the protection of our community.

2. What is the difference between ordinances and association rules?

Most homeowner's associations have their own set of rules or deed restrictions, applicable to their particular subdivision. These may be comparable to Toms River Township ordinances which establish minimum standards. Association rules can be more restrictive, but not less restrictive than Township ordinances. They must be enforced by the Association, not the Township.

3. How do I report a code violation?

You can report a violation by calling 732-341-1000, ext. 8440 or by visiting our resident complaint portal and creating an account.

4. What is the maximum height my grass can grow?

Grass and weeds must be maintained at 10 inches or less.

5. Am I allowed to park my vehicle on my lawn?

A person may not park a motor vehicle on grass, mulch, or any other surface that is not designated for a vehicle. Please contact our Zoning Department to submit a complaint 732-341-1000 Ext. 8449

6. Can an unregistered vehicle be parked on a property?

No, at no time can an unregistered vehicle be parked anywhere on a residential property unless it is in an enclosed structure such as a garage. 

7. Does the township require a certificate of occupancy for a rental?

Yes, all residential properties require a certificate of occupancy every time there is a new tenant or every three years whichever happens first. Seasonal Rentals must obtain a certificate of occupancy every year.

8. What forms do I need to submit along with my rental application?

You need the following:

• Completed Rental Application Packet
• Home owners Insurance declaration page
• Copy of an invoice or letter from a licensed professional showing the fuel burning heat source has been cleaned/inspected within the past 12 months (If the heat source is electric, you are exempt from this requirement)
• Fireplace chimney certification if there is a wood burning fireplace in the residence
• Well certification from Ocean County Board of Health if a well (for drinking water) is present
• Lead Safe Certification if built before 1978.

9. How long do I have to remove snow and ice from pedestrian areas (sidewalks, etc.) to my property?

The owner(s) or tenant(s) must remove snow within 12 hours of daylight after the snow or ice has fallen.

10. The limbs on the tree in front of my home are very low. Who trims them?

The adjacent property owner is responsible for the maintenance of street trees and the planting strip. Limbs should be trimmed over the sidewalk to allow for safe passage for pedestrians and over the street to prevent property damage to vehicles.

11. I am having problems with my landlord, who can I contact?

Please call the landlord/ tenant court at 732-929-2016.

12. When is a home considered overcrowded?

Maximum occupancy for a rental is determined by assessing the square footage of all sleeping areas.

70 Sq. ft for one occupant and 50 sq. ft for each additional.

13. I've made my complaint. How long do I have to wait before I see something being done?

After your complaint has been received, the average time to investigate is 1 to 3 working days for a Code Enforcement Officer to visit, document, and determine if a violation exists. We respond to each complaint as soon as it is filed as each and every complaint is important to us. Complaints are prioritized according to potential health and safety hazard. Once a complaint is investigated and verified, the property owner is notified and a process begins to abate the violations.

The process of abatement may last days, weeks or months; depending on the severity of the violations, the circumstances surrounding the property, and the due process and property rights that are guaranteed to all citizens. It may appear to an outside observer that no action is occurring or that action does not occur on a timeline that satisfies the complainant, however, it should be considered that the due process rights and property rights of all citizens are respected and that voluntary compliance is a process that resembles a partnership between the Township and property owners - it is not a process to penalize violators or to retaliate against difficult neighbors.

14. What are the rules regarding disposal of leaves?

Please be advised that blown and raked leaves cannot remain on the property or in the street. Please call our Public Works Department at 732-341-1000, ext. 8321 for further information.

15. What time can contractors/landscapers start and end work?

Construction can take place 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day, except for Sundays and holidays. Landscaping equipment can be run from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

16. What are your hours?

8:30 AM - 4:30 PM weekdays