Howell, NJ Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors (2026)

Section 150-18 of the Howell Township Code, added by Ord. No. 25-36 on 9-16-2025, applies to one- and two-family and attached single-family dwellings in Howell Township, Monmouth County, New Jersey. The Township Council put the duty on the owner. The owner of title or a designated agent submits the application packet and fees, and if title changes before a certificate issues, the duty transfers to the new owner. Fees follow the tiered schedule in § 139-16G. Only the record owner, an authorized designee, a licensed realtor or an authorized seller can apply, and an estate, corporation, company or partnership must apply through an executor, administrator, officer, managing member, partner or other agent with legal authority.

After a complete application is filed, the Bureau of Fire Prevention inspects the dwelling for compliance with N.J.A.C. 5:70-4.19. An individual 18 years of age or older must be on site for the owner. The written report is due no later than five business days after the inspection, and a satisfactory inspection with the fee paid entitles the owner to a certificate within five business days. A failed inspection produces a written report that identifies each deficiency and its location, and the applicant must schedule a re-inspection. Unremedied violations preclude the certificate. Secondary power source labeling under P.L. 2025, c. 19 is part of the criteria, and ANSI Z535.4 compliant labels meet it. Building address numbers must also match Chapter 80.

A certificate is valid for six months and stays valid if the purchaser changes during that period. After six months a new application and fee are required. The certificate does not replace the certificate of occupancy needed before renting under Chapter 178, Article II. Exceptions cover the Residential Re-Sale Certificate No Occupancy affidavit for as-is purchases and planned demolition, and new construction whose full CO was granted within the last year, which helps only the first owner.