After heated public comment, West Orange council adopts Pilot Place residential-parking ordinance with annual registration

Residents from Pilot Place and nearby streets pressed council for a permanent residential-parking solution, arguing a pilot would prolong uncertainty and raise equity concerns. "I would like to ask that this not be a pilot and that we be treated just as the other residents in this town have been treated," one resident told the council during public comment.

Council debated many operational details — decal counts, visitor passes, enforcement, application proof standards, and timing. After amendments removed pilot language and set parameters, council adopted an ordinance that limits resident decals to up to four vehicles per legal residential unit and gives each unit one visitor pass for the restricted hours (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.). The ordinance requires online application with proof of New Jersey vehicle registration, driver's license and insurance, and an annual decal renewal cycle (calendar-year cadence). Administration was directed to implement plate/label procedures, order signage, and set up police registration software so enforcement can begin as soon as practical; the council asked administration to aim for implementation before the fall term when feasible and to return with data on permit counts and estimated administrative costs.

Council members and staff emphasized this is an operational change requiring software and signage and said the town will monitor spillover onto adjacent streets. Council also asked police and administration to provide periodic reports on enforcement and effects so council can consider further adjustments.