Jackson Township Has the Tools to Fight Illegal Renting — Here’s How Residents Can Help
By Giuseppe Palmeri
Jackson Township Councilman
May 2025
Illegal multi-family renting in Jackson’s single-family neighborhoods has become a growing concern—and rightfully so. These situations can lead to overcrowding, parking problems, property maintenance issues, and a decline in quality of life for the surrounding community.
The good news is: Jackson Township already has strong laws in place to combat this problem—we just need to make sure they are fully enforced and that residents know how to report violations.
Here’s what every Jackson resident should know:
Two Ordinances Already on the Books
1. Chapter 244 – Zoning Ordinance
This law sets the rules for how properties in each zone can be used. If a home is in a single-family residential zone, it cannot legally be rented out to multiple families or operate as a boarding house or apartment. That’s a zoning violation.
The Township’s Zoning Officer can issue a Notice of Violation, leading to a court summons and fines. If the violation continues, the Township can pursue legal action to shut down the illegal use of the property.
2. Chapter 234 – Housing Standards Ordinance
This ordinance ensures rental homes meet health and safety standards. If a property is overcrowded, has poor sanitation, or creates unsafe living conditions, Code Enforcement can inspect it, issue violations, and even revoke the rental certificate of occupancy—forcing the home to be vacated until it meets legal standards.
Violators can face fines up to $500, jail time, and additional fines for each day the violation continues.
How You Can Help
If you suspect a home in your neighborhood is being used as an illegal multi-family rental, you don’t need to prove it—just report it. The Township will investigate.
Here’s how to report a suspected violation:
Email Code Enforcement or the Zoning Office with the property address and a brief explanation of your concern.
Be sure to copy your Council members on the email so we can follow up and help ensure your complaint is being addressed.
Why This Matters
Illegal rentals aren’t just a zoning issue—they’re a public safety and quality of life issue. They strain municipal services, lower property values, and often lead to unsafe living conditions.
Your voice matters. By reporting issues and helping us enforce the laws already in place, we can protect our neighborhoods and keep Jackson a safe, welcoming, and well-managed community for all.
Have a concern or question? Feel free to reach out to me directly. Together, we can hold the line against illegal renting and preserve the integrity of our town.