Short-term-rental rules
Can you Airbnb in Hackensack, NJ?
Researched and reviewed by Jake Lee, FounderCurrent as of July 2026How this atlas is maintained
Hackensack does not allow Airbnb-style short-term rentals. The city's official Zoning FAQs state plainly that "The City of Hackensack does not allow Airbnb's," treating them as a use not permitted under the zoning ordinance. Longer-term rentals of one and two family homes are allowed but require a Continued Certificate of Occupancy from the city before each rental.
What the rules say in Hackensack
- The City of Hackensack's official Zoning FAQs answer the question "I would like to open an Airbnb. Where should I start?" with: "The City of Hackensack does not allow Airbnb's."
- Short-term rentals are not a permitted use; there is no STR permit or registration path. Zoning enforcement handles illegally operating businesses (Zoning Department, 201-646-3920 ext. 2020).
- Standard (long-term) rental of residential units requires a Continued Certificate of Occupancy: $100 application for a one-family home, $150 for a two-family home, obtained through the Building, Housing, Land Use Department at 116 Holt Street.
Sources: City of Hackensack Zoning FAQs (official, hackensack.org). Last reviewed 2026-07.
How short-term rentals are regulated in New Jersey
- New Jersey has no single statewide short-term-rental ban. Instead, each municipality sets its own rules through local ordinances, which is why neighboring Bergen towns can differ completely.
- Statewide, short-term rentals are generally subject to NJ Sales Tax and the State Occupancy Fee (and, in some areas, local taxes) on stays under 90 days, unless booked through certain channels that collect on the host's behalf.
- Common municipal controls include registration or permits, owner-occupancy requirements, minimum-stay rules, caps on rental nights, and zoning limits on which districts allow short-term use.
- Rules change. An ordinance can be added or amended at any time. Always confirm the current rule with the municipality before listing.
Hackensack short-term-rental FAQ
Can I run a short-term rental (Airbnb) in Hackensack, NJ?
Hackensack does not allow Airbnb-style short-term rentals. The city's official Zoning FAQs state plainly that "The City of Hackensack does not allow Airbnb's," treating them as a use not permitted under the zoning ordinance. Longer-term rentals of one and two family homes are allowed but require a Continued Certificate of Occupancy from the city before each rental.
Do I need a permit or registration to run an STR in Hackensack?
Short-term rentals are not a permitted use; there is no STR permit or registration path. Zoning enforcement handles illegally operating businesses (Zoning Department, 201-646-3920 ext. 2020).
What taxes apply to a short-term rental in Hackensack, New Jersey?
Short-term stays in New Jersey are generally subject to NJ Sales Tax and the State Occupancy Fee (plus any local fees), unless collected for you by the booking platform. A tax professional can confirm what applies to your property.
Can Palisade Stays manage a short-term rental in Hackensack?
Short-term rentals face real limits in Hackensack (see the status above), so it may not be the right play. Palisade Stays can still help you understand what's possible for your property, including a compliant mid-term or longer rental, and run it if it's a fit. Start with a quick assessment.
Navigating Hackensack's rules?
We'll help you find out what's actually possible for your Hackensack property, short-term, mid-term, or otherwise, and run it if it's a fit.