Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ Homelessness & Encampment Rules: Encampment Sanitation (2026)

Chapter 290 of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Code treats camping in a park as a permitted use, not a right. Section 290-8 A(1)(a) lists camping among the activities that need a permit from the Department, meaning the Division of Parks and Forestry or the Department of Recreational Services. The permit must be in the user's possession at the park at the time of use. The application asks for the name and address of the applicant, the days and hours wanted, the park or portion of a park, the approximate number of persons, and an insurance waiver plus certificate of insurance. Section 290-10 F(3) separately bars anyone from erecting a structure, including tents, stands, platforms or play structures, or occupying any camp, without a permit.

Being present is regulated as well. Section 290-9 D says that, except when pursuant to a permit, no person or vehicle shall be in the parks when closed, with one exception for an emergency after notifying a police officer or Department representative. Section 290-15 A sets the closing window at 30 minutes after sundown to 30 minutes before sunrise, other than for permitted activities. The definition of parks in § 290-7 reaches parkways, golf courses, ball fields, reservations, recreation areas and every other property under the Department of Recreational Services.

Section 290-9 E, added 7-16-2019 by Ord. No. 2019:36, prohibits using a restroom in a park or public facility to clean oneself, other than routine hand washing, and prohibits washing or drying clothing or other articles for personal use there.

A refused permit can be appealed to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council. The Department must give the applicant written reasons within five days, and the applicant serves written notice on the Township Clerk within five days of the denial. Under § 290-8 E, violating a permit term is grounds for revocation, the Department retains the permit fees, and the violation is grounds for denying future permits.