| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Status | Restricted — rules apply |
| Permit / License Required | Yes — annual rental license + safety inspection required |
| Tax Rate | NJ Sales Tax 6.625% + Occupancy Fee 5% = 11.625% |
| Night / Day Cap | None; seasonal market |
| Permit Fee | Annual license fee |
| Penalties | Fines per offense; license revocation |
| Primary Residence Required | No |
| Occupancy Limit | Per unit |
Short-term rentals in Cape May, New Jersey are allowed but subject to significant restrictions under local regulations as of 2026. Hosts operating on Airbnb, VRBO, or other vacation rental platforms must obtain proper licensing: Yes — annual rental license + safety inspection required. The associated permit fees are Annual license fee.
Short-term rental operators in Cape May should be aware of these tax obligations: NJ Sales Tax 6.625% + Occupancy Fee 5% = 11.625%.
Key operational rules for vacation rental hosts in Cape May include: Primary residence requirement: No. Rental day cap: None; seasonal market. Occupancy limit: Per unit.
Zoning considerations for short-term rentals in Cape May: Annual license + inspection required.
Hosts who fail to comply with Cape May's short-term rental regulations may face enforcement action. Fines per offense; license revocation.
Apply for your STR permit or registration directly through the official government portal.
Official Source ↗Airbnb and short-term rentals are legal in Cape May but subject to restrictions. Hosts must comply with local permit requirements and zoning rules. Historic Cape May is a National Historic Landmark. Annual license and safety inspection required. No quantity cap but strict safety rules enforced.
Yes. Cape May requires the following for short-term rental operation: Yes — annual rental license + safety inspection required.
Short-term rental hosts in Cape May are subject to the following tax obligations: NJ Sales Tax 6.625% + Occupancy Fee 5% = 11.625%.
Hosts who operate without proper permits in Cape May may face enforcement. Fines per offense; license revocation.
Annual license + safety inspection required; historic district; 11.625% NJ state tax.
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