Avalon rental regulations: the owner’s operating checklist

1. Register and license the property annually

The Borough says every property containing rental units must register, submit to inspection and be licensed before it is rented or leased. The 2026 application is completed online by searching for the property address and selecting the applicable registration year.

After the application is reviewed, the Borough sends payment instructions for the rental-license and fire-inspection fees. The license follows a passed inspection.

2. Name the required local property manager

The Borough’s current online-application instructions require property-manager information for a full-time Cape May County resident or a business/realtor. Confirm the person or company has agreed to serve and can respond when the property needs attention.

Keep the contact information current when a realtor, manager or responsible person changes.

3. Attach the required liability evidence

Avalon requires proof of liability insurance coverage of at least $500,000. The Borough says the evidence must show the property owner, rental address, policy number, expiration date and the coverage amount.

Confirm with the insurer that the policy correctly describes the property’s rental use; a certificate submitted to the Borough does not replace review of the policy itself.

4. Prepare for the rental fire inspection

A fire inspection is part of the annual licensing process. Test safety equipment, confirm access, service the extinguisher as required and correct visible hazards before the appointment rather than treating reinspection as the checklist.

• Confirm smoke and carbon-monoxide protection for the property
• Check the portable extinguisher and current service status
• Keep exits, stairs, decks and address markings clear
• Verify the local manager or realtor can provide working access

5. Keep occupancy, advertising and the dwelling aligned

Avalon Chapter 22 includes license, occupancy and posting provisions. Use the approved property configuration and current license information when setting guest capacity; marketing language does not override borough or safety limits.

6. Keep the license workflow in the owner calendar

Save the submitted application, payment confirmation, insurance evidence, inspection result and license together. Add next year’s registration and inspection preparation to the calendar before winter so a missing document does not delay the rental season.