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1. Where can I find the enacted legislation?

https://pub.njleg.state.nj.us/Bills/2022/PL22/92_.PDF

2. Where can I find the Township Ordinance?

https://ecode360.com/WE2734/laws/LF1819005.pdf

3. Who is required to comply with the Township Ordinance?

Any individual or entity who, or which, owns or leases, and/or operates, a business within the Township and has complied with the provisions of this Chapter in obtaining a Mercantile LIcense.  Additionally, no person shall engage in  any business in the Township, nor  encourage and assist in any business, unless a license as hereinafter  provided for shall have been first obtained.

4. What are the Insurance Liability Requirements?

All Businesses and Licensees as defined under this Chapter are required to submit to  the Township’s Licensing Registry, a certificate of insurance, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:10A1 et seq. under the following requirements: 

1. Except as provided in subsection b. of this section, the owner of a business or the owner of a rental unit or units shall maintain liability insurance for negligent acts and omissions in an amount of no less than $500,000 for combined property damage and bodily injury to or death of one or more persons in any one accident or occurrence.
2. The owner of a multifamily home which is four or fewer units, one of which is owner occupied, shall maintain liability insurance  of no less than $300,000.

5. What is the term of each license?

All mercantile licenses under this chapter shall be due and payable on October 1 of each year and shall terminate and become invalid on September 30 of the next succeeding year.

6. How much is Mercantile License annual registration fee?

$100.00 for the initial unit; $20.00 per each additional unit.

 Example: the fee for a four-unit residential property would be $160.00 annually

7. Where do I post the Mercantile License?

Licenses issued under this Chapter shall be posted at the place of business shown on the license in a conspicuous place. The license shall remain posted for the duration of  the licensing year when issued, and so long as the licensed business is carried out.

8. When is the compliance date of the Ordinance?

November 1^st of each calendar year

9. Are there any restrictions with the Mercantile License?

No business shall be permitted on the location other than that for which the license issued.

10. How will the Mercantile License be enforced?

The enforcement provisions of this Ordinance shall be through the offices of the Director of Planning and Development, the Zoning Official of the Township, and any other  designees.

11. What happens if a business does not comply with obtaining a Mercantile License?

The Township may collect, through summary proceedings pursuant to “Penalty Enforcement Law of 1999,” P.L/ 199, c. 274 (C. 2A:58-10 et seq.), a fine of $2,000 against an owner who failed to comply with Section 9.1 of this Chapter.

12. Can I come in person to register?

The registration and license can be completed online. If you need further assistance , you can come to  Room 214, Town Hall, 66 Main Street, West Orange during the hours of 8:30 am- 10 am and 1 pm - 3 pm. Residents MUST have the declaration page from their insurance carrier available.

13. Can I pay by check or cash?

All payments for the mercantile license can be completed online ( including checks). If you are paying by cash come to Room 214, Town Hall, 66 Main Street, West Orange during the hours of 8:30 am-10 am and 1 pm- 3 pm.