North Bergen law makes ‘Air BnB’ punishable by jail

On Wednesday, July 13th the North Bergen Board of Commissioners and Mayor Nicholas Sacco voted to prohibit short term rentals (under 30 days). Commissioner Allen Pascual and Frank Gargiulo were absent and did not vote.

Any person who violates the provision will be subject to a $750 fine and/or 10 days in jail. The maximum punishment for this violation is $2,500 and/or 30 days in jail.

The ordinance finds short term rentals “as a community concern due to the potential for increased traffic, noise, high occupant turnover, and increased density.”

“I was looking to take advantage of my proximity to New York City and purchase the house I’ve been renting. I was looking forward to investing in this home. I guess I have to reconsider,” says Ramon Ronquillo, an entrepreneur from North Bergen.