Piscataway council adopts ordinance tightening nuisance rules for hotels

Piscataway Township Council on June 11 unanimously adopted Ordinance 2026-11, amending chapter 3 (police regulations), section 29 (nuisances), a change council members said is aimed at improving public safety and accountability at commercial properties including hotels. The ordinance was assigned number 2026-11 after the 7-0 roll-call vote.

Shane Mitchell, New Jersey director for the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council, told the council he supported the ordinance, saying hotels rank high in workplace injuries and that licensing and safety benchmarks can protect both workers and the public. "When done right a licensing regime can ensure that hotels provide high quality services for guests, safety and health for hotel workers," Mitchell said, citing past work in New York where safety features were required as part of licensure.

Council members clarified that the revised nuisance process emphasizes abatement and results rather than immediate monetary penalties. Under the ordinance, council staff would work with property owners on abatement plans; monetary fines are not automatic and would only be considered after a 12-month period in which the property remains noncompliant. The council described potential remedies that can be tailored to a property's circumstances and severity, including security personnel, cameras, improved lighting and other measures, with police assistance in implementation.

Supporters said the flexible approach is intended to give property owners time to remedy problems while holding repeat noncompliant properties accountable. The council voted by roll call: Cahill, Carmichael, Espinosa, Leibowitz, Rashid, Uhrin and Lombardi all recorded "yes." The ordinance had its first reading May 14, 2026, and was published May 29 before the June 11 second reading and adoption.

The township clerk indicated the ordinance will be published with notice of passage in the official newspaper and added to the township records.