MARLBORO – An ordinance that will prohibit residences in Marlboro from being rented on a short-term basis was adopted by the Township Council on Sept. 17.
Council President Carol Mazzola, Vice President Scott Metzger, Councilman Jeff Cantor, Councilwoman Randi Marder and Councilman Michael Scalea voted “yes” on a motion to adopt the ordinance.
The ordinance states it will be “unlawful for an owner, lessor, sub-lessor, any other person or entity with possessory right in a dwelling unit … to receive or obtain actual or anticipated consideration for advertising, offering and/or permitting, allowing … the use or occupancy of any dwelling unit or of any residential property … for a period of less than 30 consecutive days.”
The ordinance excludes hotels, motels, rooming houses, boarding houses, and bed and breakfast establishments that are otherwise permitted under the municipal code.
“We were made aware via online advertisements for short-term rentals in town for pool parties and house parties,” Mayor Jonathan Hornik said. “I signed an executive order to stop this in August and now it is an ordinance. It’s really important that we protect our residents right now from people visiting who are not from the area who may unfortunately be exposed to COVID-19.”
In recent months, police in Howell and Jackson reported instances in which individuals rented a home on a short-term basis and subsequently hosted a large party at the location. Hundreds of party-goers were reported to have attended events at homes in those two communities.
Individuals found guilty of violating the Marlboro ordinance would be subject to a fine of not more than $2,000, community service, or a jail term of not more than 90 days.