DIVISION OF ZONING 

Thursday, June 8th and Friday, June 9th, the Division of Zoning will NOT be receiving any new applications. Beginning Monday, June 12th, applications will ONLY be received through the new data portal system.  Visit jcnj.org/hedc for more information on how to create your account.


At the Division of Zoning, we enforce and interpret the Zoning and Land Use Ordinances of Jersey City, Chapter 345 of Municipal Code, as well as Jersey City’s several dozen Redevelopment Plans.

The Division of Zoning is often the first stop for many. Anyone in the process of building, renovating, starting a new business, buying property, or questioning the legality of a particular use should contact the Zoning Division. Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to answer any questions or concerns. To learn about the Zoning and Land Use Ordinance that applies to your property, enter your address here.

To file an application with the Division of Zoning, refer to the application list below. Please note that applications are updated periodically and incomplete submissions will not be accepted.

ZONING LETTERS

A Zoning Letter signed by the Zoning Officer acknowledges that certain use, structure, or building complies with the provisions of Chapter 345, redevelopment plan, or whether deviation/variance therefrom is duly authorized.

• Zoning Determination Letter (ZDL) Application

Completed Zoning Determination Letter Applications must be e-mailed to [email protected] with the subject line: Zoning Determination Letter (Address)

• Zoning Compliance Certificate (ZCC) for Short Term Rentals

The Division of Housing Preservation oversees the permitting of Short-Term Rentals (STR) and enforcement of the Short-Term Rental Ordinance. Applicants applying for Short Term Rental permit must obtain a Zoning Compliance Certificate to include in their permit application. The Zoning Division determines whether the premises are configured and used in compliance with the Jersey City’s Land Use and Zoning Ordinances.  This is treated as an application for a Zoning Determination Letter.

Please e-mail your requests to [email protected] with the subject line: Zoning Compliance Certificate (Address).

ZONING PLAN REVIEWS

The real or prospective owner and/or developer of any land may apply in writing for the issuance of a plan review and determination certifying that submitted plans comply with the provisions of Chapter 345, redevelopment plan, or deviation/variance therefrom is duly authorized.

CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY (CO)

At the Division of Zoning, we review all Certificate of Occupancy applications for zoning compliance. Please note that when simply transferring a deed, a new CO document is not required.

SIGNAGE

All building signs are reviewed by the Division of Zoning and/or Division of Historic Preservation based on the location of the property. All new signage must comply with City of Jersey City’s Design and Zoning Standards.

DRIVEWAYS AND RESIDENTIAL CARPORTS

Background: On May 28, 2001 the City Council of Jersey City adopted the Land Use Development Ordinance No. 01-042 which prohibits off-street parking between the building and street.

Driveway Markings: The Division of Zoning inspects driveways and curb cuts to ensure that they are legal and in conformance. In most Zoning Districts, NO FRONT YARD PARKING IS PERMITTED.  However, where legal a maximum of 10-foot wide curb cut and driveway is permitted. 

BUILDING DEMOLITION APPLICATION

All applications for demolition in the City of Jersey City are reviewed by the Division of Historic Preservation and subsequently by the Division of Zoning. Prior to contacting the Division of Zoning, please visit https://www.jerseycitynj.gov/cityhall/HousingAndDevelopment/cityplanning/historicpreservation

• Zoning Demolition Application

CANNABIS       

To learn about cannabis license classifications and how to obtain local approval, please visit the the following link.

Please note that to obtain a Class 6 license, an application to the Division of City Planning is not required. However, an application must be submitted to the Cannabis Control Board and a Zoning Determination Letter must be obtained from the Division of Zoning.

ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT CENTERS    

To establish an ATC, an applicant must follow the City of Jersey City Alternative Treatment Center Application Procedures which includes receiving a Zoning Determination Letter. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to establish an Alternative Treatment Center (ATC). 

FEES AND PAYMENTS

All Zoning compliance and determination applications must include proof of payment based on the project’s size and/or use. Payments can be made to City of Jersey City with certified check, money order, or credit card at the online payment portal. Before finalizing payment, please contact the Zoning staff for final fee determination.