Middle Township

Cape May County

Certificate of Occupancy

Not required

Required

Requirements

Smoke alarms by year built: before 1977, 10-year sealed battery alarms on each level and outside each sleeping area; newer homes need AC-powered (hardwired) alarms per the construction code of their year, interconnected from August 1984, and in each bedroom with battery backup from March 1991
Do not replace AC-powered alarms with battery alarms; alarms over 10 years old (or with no date) must be replaced; no tape or velcro mounting
Low-voltage fire alarm systems in homes built 1977 or later must be kept and tested by a NJ licensed alarm contractor, with the passed report sent to the Bureau before the inspection; systems installed 2011 or later must be monitored
CO alarm (UL 2034) in the hallway within 10 feet of each sleeping area when there is a fuel-burning appliance or attached garage, plus one in any bedroom with a fuel-burning appliance; not more than 10 years old
Portable fire extinguisher 2-A:10-B:C, no larger than 10 lbs, new or tagged within 12 months, on the manufacturer's bracket within 10 feet of the kitchen, top no higher than 5 feet (still listed in the 2025 packet)
Secondary power source label within 18 inches of the main electrical panel and meter for homes with solar, backup generators or batteries
Certificate will not be issued if there are any open construction permits

Fees

Certificate, application received more than 10 days prior to closing	$78.00
Certificate, application received 4 to 10 days prior to closing	$115.00
Certificate, application received less than 4 days prior to closing	$210.00
Reinspection	$75.00

Timing

Apply more than 10 days before closing for the lowest fee; the certificate must be used within six months

Phone

609-465-8710

Last checked September 30, 2026

Sources