Seaside Heights, New Jersey

Seaside Heights regulates short-term rentals (under 30 days) through its Short-Term Rental Property (STRP) program under Chapter 179, Article II of the Borough Code. Every STR requires both a Mercantile License and a STRP rental license, plus a Rental Certificate of Occupancy from Code Enforcement. First-year fees total approximately $700 in Borough fees ($200 application plus $500 annual license), plus approximately $31.50 for the Mercantile License, $100 inspection fee, $50 insurance processing fee, and $100 reinspection fee if needed. Annual renewals are approximately $100 per inspection.

Key restrictions: rentals are capped at 180 days per calendar year and fewer than 30 consecutive days; occupancy is capped at 10 people regardless of bedroom count; parking is limited to one vehicle per four occupants; between April 15 and June 30 the primary renter must be at least 21; and operators must file a Security Plan including a SORA-certified security officer unless the property is owner-occupied, a Parking Plan, and for condos an association approval letter. The STRP license number must appear in all advertising.

On the tax side: a 3% municipal short-term rental tax (effective January 1, 2024) applies on top of the 6.625% New Jersey Sales Tax and the 5% State Occupancy Fee. Following Memorial Day weekend 2025 incidents, Ordinance 2025-17 raised STRP violation fines to $1,500 to $2,000 per violation per day, up from $100. Enforcement severity is rated high. There is no owner-occupancy requirement and no primary-residence requirement.