Rules & Ordinances in Hackensack
Key local ordinances and regulations. Always check with the municipal clerk for the most current rules.
Noise Ordinance
Hackensack enforces noise regulations to balance its urban commercial activity with residential quality of life.
- ●Construction work permitted Monday-Friday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- ●Saturday construction 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- ●No construction on Sundays or holidays
- ●Amplified music and sound from commercial establishments restricted after 10:00 PM
- ●Vehicle noise (horns, modified exhausts, boom boxes) subject to fines
Source: Hackensack City Code
Property Maintenance
The city actively enforces property maintenance standards as part of its revitalization efforts.
- ●Lawns and yards must be maintained — grass exceeding 10 inches triggers violation
- ●Sidewalks must be kept clear and in good repair by property owners
- ●Snow and ice removed from sidewalks within 12 hours of storm ending
- ●No accumulation of junk, debris, or garbage on private property
- ●Commercial storefronts must maintain clean and presentable facades
- ●Vacant properties must be registered and maintained
Source: Hackensack City Code
Pet Regulations
Dogs must be licensed and controlled; the city operates an animal control program.
- ●All dogs over 7 months must be licensed annually with the City Clerk
- ●Rabies vaccination mandatory for all dogs and cats
- ●Dogs must be leashed when on public property or off owner's premises
- ●Pet waste must be picked up immediately from public areas
- ●Maximum number of pets per household may apply — check local ordinance
- ●Aggressive or dangerous dogs subject to additional regulations
Source: Hackensack City Code
Parking Regulations
Parking enforcement is active in the city's busy downtown and commercial areas.
- ●Metered parking enforced Monday-Saturday, typically 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- ●Two-hour limits in many commercial zones without feeding meters
- ●Overnight street parking may require a residential permit in certain areas
- ●No double parking — strictly enforced on Main Street and adjacent blocks
- ●Snow emergency parking restrictions in effect during declared emergencies
Source: Hackensack City Code
Rental Regulations
Hackensack has a significant rental population and comprehensive landlord-tenant regulations.
- ●All rental units must be registered with the city
- ●Certificate of Habitability / Occupancy required for all rental units
- ●Landlords must maintain units to housing code standards
- ●NJ Anti-Eviction Act protections apply to tenants
- ●Security deposit limited to 1.5 months' rent under state law
- ●PILOT-agreement buildings may have separate regulatory requirements
Source: Hackensack City Code, NJ Landlord-Tenant Law
Redevelopment Zone Regulations
Several areas of Hackensack are designated as redevelopment zones with specific requirements.
- ●Developers must comply with adopted Redevelopment Plans
- ●PILOT agreements negotiated for qualifying projects
- ●Design standards and density requirements specific to each zone
- ●Public amenity contributions may be required as part of approvals
Source: Hackensack Redevelopment Plans
Food Establishment Regulations
Restaurants and food establishments are regulated by the city Health Department.
- ●Health permits required for all food establishments
- ●Regular inspections conducted by the Health Department
- ●Outdoor dining permits available for qualifying restaurants
- ●Food truck operations require specific permits and approved locations
Source: Hackensack City Code, Bergen County Health Department