Rules & Ordinances in Fort Lee
Key local ordinances and regulations. Always check with the municipal clerk for the most current rules.
Noise Ordinance
Fort Lee enforces noise restrictions to maintain quality of life in its dense residential areas.
- ●Construction work prohibited before 8:00 AM and after 6:00 PM on weekdays
- ●No construction on Sundays or federal holidays
- ●Saturday construction allowed 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- ●Excessive noise from residential units (music, parties) subject to fines
- ●Commercial deliveries restricted during late night/early morning hours
Source: Fort Lee Borough Code
Property Maintenance
Property owners must maintain their properties to borough standards, including landscaping and structural upkeep.
- ●Lawns must be kept trimmed — grass over 10 inches may result in violation
- ●Snow and ice must be cleared from sidewalks within 12 hours of storm ending
- ●No accumulation of trash, debris, or abandoned vehicles on properties
- ●Building facades and structures must be maintained in safe condition
- ●Vacant properties must be registered and maintained
Source: Fort Lee Borough Code
Pet Regulations
Dogs must be licensed annually and kept under control at all times.
- ●All dogs must be licensed with the Borough Clerk's office
- ●Dogs must be on a leash when off the owner's property
- ●Owners must clean up after their pets on public and private property
- ●Rabies vaccination required for all dogs and cats
- ●No exotic or wild animals permitted as pets
Source: Fort Lee Borough Code
Parking Regulations
Fort Lee has strict parking regulations due to its density and proximity to the George Washington Bridge.
- ●Alternate-side parking enforced on many residential streets for street cleaning
- ●No overnight parking on borough streets without a resident permit in designated zones
- ●GWB traffic overflow parking strictly prohibited in residential areas
- ●Fire hydrant clearance of 10 feet required at all times
- ●Handicapped space violations carry significant fines
Source: Fort Lee Borough Code
Rental Regulations
Fort Lee has a large rental population and enforces landlord-tenant regulations actively.
- ●Landlords must register rental units with the Borough
- ●Rent control ordinance applies to buildings with three or more units built before certain dates
- ●Certificate of Habitability required for all rental units
- ●Security deposit limited to 1.5 months' rent per NJ state law
- ●Tenants protected under NJ Anti-Eviction Act
Source: Fort Lee Borough Code, NJ Landlord-Tenant Law
Short-Term Rentals
Short-term rental regulations apply to platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO.
- ●Short-term rentals must comply with borough zoning ordinances
- ●Registration may be required — check with the Building Department
- ●Fire safety and occupancy codes must be met
- ●Complaints about short-term rental properties may result in enforcement action
Source: Fort Lee Borough Code