Overview: Are Short-Term Rentals Allowed in Atlantic City, NJ?

Yes, short-term rentals are explicitly allowed in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The city has established a comprehensive regulatory framework that permits and governs short-term rental operations. Atlantic City defines short-term or vacation rentals as the rental of a residential dwelling unit for periods of 90 consecutive days or less. However, operators must comply with all city ordinances and obtain proper permits and licenses to operate legally.

How to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Atlantic City

To establish a short-term rental business in Atlantic City, you must follow these essential steps:

1. Property Eligibility Assessment

• Ensure your property is current on all taxes, water, and sewer charges
• Verify the property is free of any property maintenance violations
• If operating in a condominium, obtain approval from the condominium association

2. Application Process

• Submit a short-term rental application through the city's online portal
• Pay the required $150 application fee (non-prorated)
• Schedule and pass a city inspection for code compliance

3. Obtain Required Insurance

• Secure general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $300,000
• Ensure the insurance policy specifically covers short-term rental activity

4. Complete Inspection and Licensing

• Allow city inspectors to determine occupancy limits during the inspection
• Pay occupancy-based licensing fees after inspection approval
• Receive your seasonal certificate of occupancy, which serves as your operating license

Required Documents, Permits, Licenses, and Guidelines

Mandatory Documentation:

• Seasonal Certificate of Occupancy - Primary operating license
• Short-term rental application with $150 fee
• Proof of general liability insurance ($300,000 minimum coverage)
• Property ownership documentation
• Condominium association approval (if applicable)

Required Information for Application:

• Exact property address including block, lot, and unit number
• Owner of record information (name, address, phone, email)
• For corporate entities (LLC, corporation, partnership): Information on all principals including names and addresses
• Property manager or agent information (name, address, phone, email)

Annual Licensing Fees (Post-Inspection):

• 1-6 occupants: $1,000
• 7-11 occupants: $1,500
• 12 or more occupants: $1,800

Note: All licenses are valid from January 1st through December 31st without proration and must be renewed annually.

Specific Regulations for Short-Term Rentals

City-Level Regulations:

Operational Requirements:

• Age Restriction: Properties cannot be rented to anyone under 21 years of age
• 24/7 Availability: Property owners or agents must be reachable at all times and able to respond to complaints within one hour
• Occupancy Limits: Strictly adhere to city-determined occupancy limits established during inspection

Compliance Standards:

• Noise Control: Outside music or excessive noise audible beyond the property is prohibited
• Parking Regulations: All vehicles must be parked in the driveway and cannot block neighboring driveways or community mailboxes
• Waste Management: Trash must not be stored in public view except in proper containers for collection according to city code
• Solid Waste and Recycling: Must follow all municipal solid waste and recycling regulations

Violation Penalties:

• Each violation may result in court fines up to $2,000
• Common violations include noise disturbances, improper parking, and trash violations

Inspection and Renewal Process:

• Annual inspections required for license renewal
• Properties must maintain code compliance throughout the license period
• Occupancy determinations made during city inspection process

Contact Information for Local Authorities

Short-Term Rental Office

• Phone: 609-347-5290
• Department: Department of Licensing & Inspections
• Mailing Address: City of Atlantic City, NJ 1301 Bacharach Boulevard Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Violation Reporting Hotline

• 24-Hour Complaint Line: 888-746-0711
• Online Complaints: Available through city complaint portal
• Purpose: Handle complaints regarding noise, excessive trash, and overcrowding

General City Information

• Main Website: www.acnj.gov/
• Social Media:
  • Twitter: @AtlanticCityGov
  • Facebook: AtlanticCityGov
  • Instagram: @atlanticcitynjgov

Source Links and Additional Resources

Official City Resources:

• Primary STR Information: www.acnj.gov/pages/short-term-rentals
• City Ordinances for Short-Term Rentals: ecode360.com/15210516
• Short-Term Rental Application Portal: main.govpilot.com/web/public/6d053fdc-7d1_Short-Term-Rentals-Application-atlanticcity?uid=6910&ust=NJ&pu=1&id=0
• Violation Complaint Portal: complaints-str.deckard.com/atlantic_city-nj-str-complaints

Additional Resources:

• Airbnb Atlantic City Guide: www.airbnb.com/help/article/2831
• Local Host Community: Facebook Group for New Jersey Airbnb Hosts

Important Notes for Investors:

• All information is based on regulations effective as of January 2021
• Regulations may be updated periodically - always verify current requirements with the city
• Consider consulting with local legal or tax professionals for specific business guidance
• The city actively enforces STR regulations and maintains a 24-hour complaint system
• Failure to obtain proper licensing and maintain compliance can result in significant fines and operational restrictions

This comprehensive regulatory framework demonstrates that Atlantic City welcomes short-term rental businesses while maintaining strong oversight to protect neighborhood quality and ensure responsible operation.