CITY OF CAPE MAY
2026  BEACH TAGS

Beach Tag Prices:

Seasonal $40.00 May 1st - Labor Day

Commemorative Beach Tags $75.00

Weekly (Saturday - Saturday) $25.00

Three Day $20.00

Daily $10.00

   

Prices are per person age 12 and older

Children 11 and under are FREE

NOTE:

ALL SALES ARE FINAL

 NO REFUNDS WILL BE ISSUED.

THIS INCLUDES BEACH CLOSURES DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER.

BEACH TAGS ARE REQUIRED TO USE ADA ACCESSIBLE BEACH MATS

 MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND SATURDAY 5/23

TO

LABOR DAY 9/7

FROM 10AM -5PM.

WHERE TO PURCHASE IN PERSON

City Hall - Tax Office 

643 Washington Street

Monday - Friday 8:00am - 3:00pm

Excluding Holidays

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Beach Tag Office

Location 704 Beach Avenue (next to Convention Hall)

9:00am to 3:30pm

Hours are subject to change based on operational needs and seasonal demand.

Beginning May 23rd, beach tags may be purchased at any beach entrance,

at the Beach Tag Office sales window located at 704 Beach Avenue

or any of our four booths locations situated at 

 Broadway, Gurney, Howard & Madison Avenue 

CASH OR PERSONAL CHECK ONLY

      

To Order Online

By clicking the link below, you will be redirected to a third-party vendor, Jersey Cape Beach Tag website.

Cape May 2026 Seasonal Beach Tag – Jersey Cape Tags Online Store

All tags purchased through Jersey Cape are processed and handled by Jersey Cape Staff.

Questions or problems regarding purchases should be directed to Jersey Cape 609-465-4117

2026 Commemorative Tags are still available

Tags are only Available for in Person Purchase $75.00

City Hall Tax Office or Beach Tag Office

Members of all boards and commissioners are citizens from our community and duly appointed by the Mayor. We understand that many of you may have questions regarding this process. It is through our understanding of the procedures that we may serve you better. Our duty is to maintain all records and or decisions of the membership. The responsibilities are determined in accordance with the Municipal Land Use Laws of the State of New Jersey.

In the future, we will be updating this site so you may access various items of interest such as pending applications and project activities that each board or commission may be pursuing. We look forward to up-dating you.

The City Clerk’s responsibilities as defined by New Jersey Statutes include: Secretary to the Municipal Corporation, Secretary to the Governing Body, Chief Administrative Officer of all Elections held in the municipality, Chief Registrar of voters in the municipality, and Administrative and Licensing Officer. The City Clerk is also the Registrar of Vital Statistics and Custodian of Records for the municipality.

The City Clerk’s Office handles the following:

• Voter Registration Information
• Elections
• Maintains records including all resolutions, ordinances, agendas, and minutes for the municipality
• Open Public Records Act (OPRA) Requests
• Liquor Licenses
• ABC Permits
• Bingo/Raffle Licenses
• Special Event Applications
• Tort Claim Notices
• Marriage Licenses applications
• Maintains Marriage, Birth and Death Records for events that occurred within the City of Cape May dating back to 1921
• Certified Copies of Vital Records

For questions regarding any of the topics listed above, please contact City Clerk Erin Burke.

The City Clerk’s Licensing Office handles the following:

• Dog Licenses
• Dog Park Passes
• Yard Sale Permits
• Contractors Licenses
• Mercantile Licenses
• Landlord Registration
• On-Street Parking Permits
• Reserved Handicapped Parking Permits
• Bank Street Parking Lot Permits
• Jackson Street Parking Lot Permits
• Private Driveway Permits
• Washington Street Mall Patio Permits
• Street Opening Applications
• Tent Permits
• Beach Concessions

For questions regarding any of the topics listed above, please contact Terry Stickle or Ashane Wilson.

*IMPORTANT ANNUAL DUE DATES*

Contractors License: January 1

Dog License Renewal: January 1

Jackson St. Parking Permit: January 1

Bank St. Parking Permit: April 2

Mercantile Licenses: May 1

Liquor Licenses: June 30

Located on the third floor of City Hall, this department consists of the City Manager, a Deputy City Manager and a Confidential Assistant. This Department is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the City within the parameters of the Cape May City Government. All departments report into this office.

The City Manager is responsible for executing the many varied tasks required to meet the unique and changing needs in the governing of the City of Cape May, a National Historic Landmark City, and the Nation’s Oldest Seashore Resort. Some of these functions include but are not limited to, the daily handling of correspondence, telephone inquiries, and office visits by the public, as well as the employees of the City of Cape May. This office is also responsible for the oversight of all City projects. 

In addition, the City’s Personnel Department is housed here and is another important facet of the Department of Administration. The City participates with the New Jersey Department of Personnel in a coordinated effort to successfully execute personnel policies and procedures. All employment opportunities are reviewed and approved by this department, and all personnel-related forms are executed by the Manager.

The Code Enforcement Officer conducts investigations in order to ensure and enforce compliance with a variety of ordinances, codes, and other regulations. Such inspections involve making determinations as to compliance or violations of codes based on visual or other specific investigation techniques, such as the obvious physical condition of an item or premises.

The inspections that the Code Enforcement Official conducts are governed by specific procedures and serve as the basis for appropriate legal action where there is failure to comply with applicable regulations. Compliance may be obtained by methods such as persuasion, negotiation, and technical assistance. Compliance may also require actions such as citation of violations, drafting of complaints, and referral of cases for administrative or legal proceedings.

Some key areas that the Code Enforcement Officer governs include: Conservation and Development; Property Maintenance; Community Affairs; Chapter 10-- Hotel and Multiple Dwelling Regulations; Health and Vital Statistics.  

If you would like to view the status of your permit, follow this link: 

https://www.sdlportal.com/towns/nj/capemay/capemaycity

Construction Permits are required to construct, enlarge, repair, alter, renovate, demolish, reconstruct or change the use of a building or structure or to install equipment. This is not an all inclusive listing of permit requirements. Permit questions should be directed to the Technical Assistant at 609-884-9555.

***FOR PERMIT AND INSPECTION REQUEST - 609-884-9555***

The Construction & Zoning Officer, and staff, review all applications and plans for compliance with the City of Cape May Land Use Ordinances, the Uniform Construction Code-State of New Jersey (UCC), which has been adopted by the City of Cape May. 

This office is where all applications for Construction Permits, Planning and Zoning Boards, and Historic Preservation Commission are submitted for review and approval. The staff will assist the public in the procedures for filling out and submitting the forms for construction permits. Information is available through this office for property owners regarding flood zone map determinations, information pertaining to building codes, City of Cape May ordinance and zoning codes, and zoning district maps. 

A City of Cape May permit is required for the following items: fences, sheds, driveways, curb cuts, sidewalk repair, walkways, pavers, and dumpsters and/or construction equipment located on the street.  The Division of Inspections oversees the enforcement of all New Jersey State adopted construction codes which include building, fire, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, asbestos, barrier free access and lead abatement within the boundaries of the City of Cape May.

Cape May City is a class 1 municipality which by definition requires all code enforcement officials to be licensed as high-rise and hazardous specialist (HHS). All inspectors are licensed by the state and are enrolled in a continuing educational program.

Plan review and inspections are performed by the City’s construction office. 

The purpose of the Division of Inspections is to control all matters concerning the construction, alteration, addition, repair, removal, demolition, use, location, occupancy of all building and structures and adequately protect the health, safety and welfare of the people of Cape May. Administrative, technical and advisory assistance is provided to all property owners, homeowners, architects, engineers, attorneys, developers, business owners and local and state agencies. To schedule an inspection, contact the Construction Department at 609-884-9555. Notice the Construction Department must be given 24 hours prior to the time the inspection is requested. Inspections will always be completed within three business days.

Our staff will be happy to assist you in any way they can. Please feel free to contact this office with any questions you may have.

Construction Permits

Construction Permits are required to construct, enlarge, repair, alter, renovate, demolish, reconstruct or change the use of a building or structure or to install equipment. This is not an all inclusive listing of permit requirements. Permit questions should be directed to the Technical Assistant at 609-884-9555.

Prior to applying for a permit there are certain approvals or certifications that may be required. These approvals are called Prior Approvals and are issued by various Federal, State, and/or County agencies. Some prior approval requirements that apply to some building permits are:

• Planning Board/Zoning Board of Adjustment 609-884-9549
• Historic Preservation Commission 609-884-9561
• Cape Atlantic Soil Conservation 609-626-3144
• Water/Sewer from the City of Cape May 609-884-9575
• Coastal Area Facilities Review Act (CAFRA) permit 609-292-0060
• Affordable Housing Fee – COAH 609-884-9545
• Shade Tree Commission 609-884-9599
• Cape May City License 609-884-9534

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New Jersey Clean Energy Program.pdf

New Jersey Clean Energy Program Com.pdf

Flood Damage Prevention Compliance Ordinance.pdf

Flood Protection Information.pdf

floodplain management plan.pdf

Flood Information.pdf

To Print Cape May City Permits and Applications

Zoning Permit Application fillable.pdf

MISSION:  The mission of Cape May Convention Hall is to serve our community, delight our guests, and enhance the reputation of the greater Cape May area. We fulfill this mission by offering programming that showcases nature, culture, and the arts; by hosting celebrations that mark meaningful life events; and by providing a cutting-edge venue for trade and commerce activities, conventions, and meetings.

THE FACILITY:  Cape May Convention Hall is a state-of-the-art facility located in one of the Mid-Atlantic region’s most desirable destinations. Situated directly on the beach, the 20,000 square-foot facility features two event halls, a catering kitchen, a meeting room, a wraparound deck, and a multi-purpose atrium with an unparalleled view of the beach and the ocean. Cape May is an upscale resort so there is always a variety of accommodations available, and the pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly layout of the town makes it an attractive alternative to busy urban areas.

ABOUT CAPE MAY:  Known as “The Nation’s Oldest Seashore Resort,” the City of Cape May has enjoyed a longstanding reputation as a desired destination for vacationers. With over 600 Victorian-era structures in use, the entire City of Cape May has been declared a National Historic Landmark by the United States Department of the Interior. These homes, hotels, B&B’s, and other accommodation properties comprise one of the largest existing collections of late 19th-century architecture in the country. Cape May boasts a 10.5-month economy highlighting all areas of tourism that encompasses the wonders of the natural eco-systems, the romance of the Victorian era, pristine protected beaches, exciting recreational activities, unique shopping and dining opportunities, and events that are as varied and delightful as the seasons themselves.

Finance Department

The Finance Department, headed by the Chief Financial Officer, safeguards the fiscal integrity of the City, reports accurate and timely financial information to the City Council, the City Manager and the public, and provides financial management and record-keeping support to all the City departments to enable them to carry out their duties efficiently.

Payroll

The Payroll and Benefits Coordinator processes the biweekly payroll, handles all employee health benefits and reports all pension and quarterly tax payments to the Federal and State governments.

Purchasing

The Qualified Purchasing Agent is committed to providing best value results to the City and the public, through effective procurement services and technological and strategic advancements to ensure open and fair competition, in accordance with Federal, State, County and Municipal laws.

Accounts Payable

Our Accounts Payable sector is responsible for the processing of vendor invoices, creating bill lists for City Council approval and the mailing of approved checks.

City of Cape May Fire Department

The Cape May Fire Department is a combination department consisting of career and volunteer personnel. We provide the fire and technical rescue protection at all incidents in the City of Cape May. The Cape May Fire Department also provides the first due engine company for parts of the island that include sections of Lower Township. We are the Rapid Intervention Crew for Station 61 Townbank VFC , We provide emergency medical services for Cape May, West Cape May, Cape May Point and civilians on the U. S Coast Guard Training Center.  Off Duty and volunteer members are called to duty on all box fire alarms and when an additional ambulance is requested, stretching the career staff to capacity.

The career staff are all members of International Association of Fire Fighters Local 3495. Career members are trained in many technical rescue capabilities. These rescue skills include:

•  Surf rescue
•  Swift water rescue
•  Ice rescue
•  Hi angle rescue
•  Confined space rescue
•  Hazardous material
•  Structural collapse
•  Vehicle extrication

Many of the career staff are certified fire instructors as well as have training in fire cause and investigation.

The Cape May Fire Department protects the city with four BLS ambulances, one engine, one squad,  a tower ladder, a medium duty rescue truck, a 4x4 utility vehicle, a chief and deputy chief vehicle, a five ton military surplus flood truck and a sixteen foot aluminum boat for flooding.

The U.S. Coast Guard Fire Department Station 59 supplies an engine and West Cape May VFC supplies a ladder company on all first alarm assignments and target hazard responses. The Erma VFC Station 62 provides the rapid intervention crew for Cape May. Second alarm assignments to the City of Cape May bring an Engine from Station 61 Townbank, a squad from Station 60 Villas VFC and a quint (ladder) from Station 72 Rio Grande VFC. A third alarm assignment will bring to Cape May an engine from Station 73 Green Creek VFC, a squad from Station 4 Wildwood Crest and a quint (ladder) from Station 3 Wildwood FD. The CMC Fire Coordinator is dispatched once a second alarm has been sounded to assist with additional apparatus and personnel staging.

The Cape May Fire Department is pleased to announce an important upgrade to our Knox Box rapid entry system. Effective immediately, we are transitioning from the standard key-secure Knox Box system to the advanced Knox E-Key system. This upgrade represents a significant enhancement in security, accountability, and emergency response capabilities for our community.

 What is Changing?
The Cape May Fire Department will now utilize electronic Knox E-Keys instead of traditional mechanical keys to access Knox Boxes throughout the city. This modern system provides superior protection for your property while maintaining our ability to respond quickly and effectively during emergencies.

Benefits of the E-Key System

Enhanced Security

• Electronic access eliminates risks associated with lost or copied physical keys
• Each access is electronically logged with date, time, and user identification
• Unauthorized access attempts are immediately detected and recorded
• Two factor authentication for key utilization

Improved Accountability

• Real-time tracking of key access
• Enhanced oversight ensures proper use of the system

System Reliability

• E-Keys are more durable and weather-resistant than traditional keys
• Reduced maintenance and replacement costs
• Integration with modern fire department technology platforms 

What You Need to Know

If you currently have a Knox Box:

• No action is required on your part
• Your existing Knox Box will continue to function properly
• The E-Key system is compatible with current Knox Box installations
• You do not need to purchase a new box or make any modifications

If you are considering purchasing a Knox Box:

• Only Knox Boxes compatible with the E-Key system will be available for purchase moving forward
• Visit the Knox Company website at www.knoxbox.com to view available E-Key compatible models
• Contact the Cape May Fire Department for assistance with selection and installation guidance 

Why Knox Boxes Matter
Knox Boxes provide secure, authorized access to your property during emergencies when immediate entry is critical and no one is available to unlock doors. This prevents costly forced entry damage while ensuring our firefighters and emergency medical personnel can reach those in need without delay. The upgrade to E-Keys strengthens this vital program while protecting your investment.

Questions or Additional Information
For questions about the E-Key system transition, Knox Box purchases, or installation requirements, please contact:
Cape May Fire Department
1-609-884-9512

We appreciate your continued partnership in maintaining Cape May's high standards for fire safety and emergency preparedness. This upgrade demonstrates our commitment to utilizing the most advanced tools available to protect our community.

The goal of the City of Cape May Bureau of Fire Prevention is to provide a safe environment for our residents and visitors through education and compliance.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Invoices went out the 1st week of January via email and a hard copy was mailed the week of 1/12/26 .  

If you are no longer renting or operating your business, select the "no longer Renting/Operating box, sign, and return the form for processing.

We do strongly urge you to notify us prior to renting or operating your business to schedule your fire inspection.  IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FIRE INSPECTION.  FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN A PENALTY.

When scheduling your inspection, consider the following:

• We will utilize a lock box or pick up a key from a local real estate office (Cape May City only) provided that the residence will be unoccupied & not rented during that time. You must notify the realtor we will be coming.
• We schedule inspections Monday through Friday in two-time frames: Morning, between (9-12pm) & Afternoon, between (1-4pm).  Note:  If using a lockbox or picking up a key the time frame will be between (9-4).
• If you would like a call prior to arrival, please provide the name and number of an individual.
• If you schedule when tenants are there, you or a property manager shall be present for the inspection. 

Fire Extinguishers are no longer required in One- or Two Family Dwellings (For Sales and/or Rentals)

• The State removed the requirement of a fire extinguisher in this type of occupancy only.
• If you choose to keep the extinguisher, it must be maintained. (Approved hanger & serviced within the past 12 months).
• If you are a new business or applicant, please complete the form and check the new registration box. After the review, you will be invoiced as per our local ordinance (Ord. NO 364-2018).  Once payment is received, please call the office to schedule an inspection.

We now accept payments online for FIRE invoices.  Visit https://cmcbofpnj.tylerportico.com/payments/billsearch/landing to make a payment.

 If you have any questions, you can email the Bureau at fireprevention@capemaycity.com

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TOP 5 VIOLATIONS FOR RESIDENTIAL RENTALS

1. Maintain the premises in a clean and safe condition
   • Clutter will interfere with both the occupants attempting to get out and the firefighters attempting to get in.
   • Accumulation of grease in kitchens can cause a fire to spread quickly.
   • Storage around or near heating sources could cause an ignition.

2. Fire Extinguishers must be a minimum size 2A:10BC.  (See the UPDATE information in the above letter)
   • It must be either new or serviced within the past 12 months by an NJ DFS licensed company.
   • It must be located within 10’ of the kitchen.
   • It must be mounted in a visible location OR mounted in a cabinet with a sign that depicts or indicates that a fire extinguisher is inside.

3. Maintain your smoke alarms.
   • Smoke alarms cannot be older than 10 years.
   • Smoke alarms must be mounted as to the manufacturer’s directions.
   • If you have hardwired smoke alarms, they must be maintained as hardwired smoke alarms (you cannot replace them with a battery only type).
   • Since 2019, ALL battery only smoke alarms must be of the 10-year sealed battery type.

4. A Carbon monoxide alarm is required to be within the vicinity of the sleeping areas and on every level.
   • They have expiration dates that range from 5,7, and 10 years depending on the manufacturer.
   • Carbon Monoxide Alarms are required if you have fuel burning appliances, attached garages, fireplaces, or you are attached to a dwelling that has one of those items.

5. Extension cords are for temporary use only.
   • They are not to be ran underneath rugs or stapled to the wall.
   • You cannot piggy-back extension cords onto one another or use them with a multi-plug adapter or power strip.
   • You must only use them for what they are rated.

To read the REAL Ruled FAQ, please click HERE

Individual Property Information and Elevation Certificates  -  Flood Information Center

Activity 320 – Mapping Information: 

The City of Cape May and representatives from the Floodplain Management Office: we provide information regarding flood map inquiries, including but not limited to information on: flood depths, BFE, LIMWA, FIRM, SFHA, V zone, historic flooding, mean high water, sea level rise, projected sea level rise, category 1 hurricane storm surge, projected special flood hazard area in 2050 and marsh migration. For additional information, please contact Paul Dietrich at pdietrich@capemaycity.com, (609) 435-2642.

Activity 360 – Flood Protection Assistance:

The City of Cape May is a participant of the FMA (Flood Mitigation Assistance) program and has submitted an LOI (Letter of Intent) to participate in the program with the Cape May County Office of Emergency Management.

Additionally, the City of Cape May provides information on flood proofing, grant funding sources for home elevations and flood proofing, ICC (Increase Cost of Compliance) and flood insurance – for additional information including sample policy forms for download, please scroll all the way down to the bottom of this page.

Activity 370 - Flood Insurance Promotion

The City of cape May helps promote residents and property owners purchase flood insurance to protect their homes.  We host an annual meeting about flood insurance.  This years meeting is on Thursday, November 4th at 4:00pm at Cape May City Hall, 634 Washington Street. We also have partnered with several local insurance companies through the NJ Coastal Coalition to provide technical assistance with understanding your flood insurance policy and how your premiums are calculated.  You can contact Heist Insurance (http://www.heistinsurance.com/) at 609-399-0655 or Brown & Brown Insurance (http://www.bbinj.com/) at 609-390-3360 or McMahon Insurance (https://mcmahonagency.com/) at 609-399-0060 or Flood Reduction Plus (https://yourfloodrisk.com/) at 866-599-7066.  Have your Elevation Certificate and your Insurance Policy with you when you call. Any other insurance companies that want to assist our community in this outreach efforts please contact NJ Coastal Coalition at acmcoastalcoalition@gmail.com.

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover damage caused by flooding.

Only flood insurance policies cover physical damage to your property and possessions caused by flooding. This damage is not covered under homeowners insurance. NFIP offers up to $250,000 in flood insurance coverage for building property (your home) and up to $100,000 for personal contents (your belongings). Although these coverages fall under one policy, the coverages may be purchased separately so that renters can obtain only personal contents coverage if desired. If you are a homeowner wishing to protect your home and belongings, be sure to request both coverages.

For specific information about what is covered and not covered, visit the National Flood Insurance Program Summary of Coverage.

The risk is real.

It doesn’t take a major body of water or a significant storm to cause flooding. A flood can occur because of a slow-moving rainstorm, snowmelt, land development runoff, and more. High-risk areas have a 1 in 4 chance of flooding during a 30-year mortgage. While moderate-to-low risk areas have a reduced risk of flooding, these areas are responsible for nearly 25% of flood insurance claims.

According to FloodSmart.gov, just one inch of water in a 1,000-square-foot home can cause over $10,000 in damage. That cost grows with the severity of the flood:

Estimated Cost of Flooding
in a 1,000-Square-Foot Home
Four-foot flood	$39,950
One-foot flood	$27,150
Six-inch flood	$20,150
One-inch flood	$10,600

When available, federal disaster assistance can cost more than a flood insurance policy.

Federal disaster assistance is not insurance. It is only available when a disaster is federally declared, and usually comes in the form of a loan with interest. A flood insurance policy is often the less expensive option.

The best time to buy flood insurance in New Jersey is now.

There is typically a 30-day waiting period before a policy takes effect after purchase.

More detailed information about flooding and evacuation routes provided by Coastal Coalition Flood Info Story Map

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Links

FEMA Flood Map Service Center - Find your base Flood Elevation

www.fema.gov/plan-prepare-mitigate

www.floodsmart.gov

Local Rain Gauges & Weather Data

NJ Coastal Coalition

Flood Hazard & Evacuation Maps

Coastal Evacuation Route Map

Cape May County Emergency Shelter Locations

Cape May County Tidal Flooding Awareness

http://www.pressofac.com/weather

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Flood Protection/Management Plan

Cape May City Annex Hazard Mitigation Plan 2021.pdf

FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT PLAN 2023 UPDATE.pdf

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 FEMA Documents

NFIP-CRS Factsheet

FAQ for Historic Structures

What to do Post-Flood

Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act-Overview CLICK HERE

Elevation Certificates-Who needs them and why

Protect Natural Floodplain Functions

Real Time Cape May Harbor Tide Height data

The legislative power of the City shall be exercised by the Council, except as may be otherwise provided by general law. The Mayor shall participate and vote as other Council Member, but has no executive power. A majority of the whole number of the governing body shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, but a smaller number may meet and adjourn from time to time. The Mayor shall preside over all meetings of the Council. The Council shall select from among its members a Deputy Mayor who shall serve in place of the Mayor in the event of his absence, disability or refusal to act.

The Council shall have the specific duties as follows:

a. Act as legislative body;

b. Develop and act upon ordinances and resolutions;

c. Modify and adopt the municipal budget;

d. Appoint various professionals, boards and commissions as provided by the Administrative Code;

e. Investigate administration as may be needed.

The City Council has established the following schedule of work sessions on the first Tuesday and regular meetings on the third Tuesday of each month, except where indicated otherwise, all regular meetings to be held in City Hall Auditorium at 6:00 o'clock P.M., and work sessions to be held 6:00 o'clock P.M., in the Auditorium, on the dates listed.

Judge: Thomas D. Keywood
Certified Court Administrator: Amanda I. Melendez, C.M.C.A.
Phone Number: (609)-884-9550 

The Municipal Court is located at 643 Washington Street in Cape May City on the lower level of City Hall. Hours of operation are 8:00AM – 4:00PM, Monday through Friday, except for holidays. Court is in session the first and third Wednesday of every month from January through May at 9:00 am and every Wednesday beginning June at 9:00 AM. 

The office is staffed by six (6) personnel which are, by title, as follows. 

Judge (1)
Court Administrator (1)
Deputy Court Administrator (1)
Seasonal Data Processor (1)
Prosecutor (1)
Public Defender (1)

The judicial staff of the Cape May City Municipal Court is employed by the City of Cape May. The rules which govern the Court are handed down by the State of New Jersey Supreme Court. The Municipal Court is directly supervised by the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC). 

The purpose of the Court personnel is to assist the Judge in the adjudication of cases that are brought before the Court. This consists of and is limited to the scheduling of Court appearances, mediation hearings, the taking of fines, penalties and assessments and the disbursement of collected monies to the appropriate agencies. 

SOME HELPFUL LINKS BELOW:

• NJMCdirect - Pay your traffic ticket online
• Municipal Court Self-Help | NJ Courts
• Parking Plea Instructions

FORMS:

• Park Mobile Information - CM.pdf
• Appeal Packet.pdf
• Municipal Financial Questionnaire.pdf
• Expungement Packet.pdf
• Plea by Mail.pdf
• Records Request.pdf
• 2025 Court Dates - CM.pdf
• Your Day in Court.pdf

The Cape May Harbor provides many important functions. It is the home port of 6 Coast Guard Cutters. It is the location of one of the largest fishing industries on the East Coast and is a major stopover for yachts traveling the Atlantic Coast.  Additionally, the harbor is the staging area for sailboat races and a sailing school run by the Corinthian Yacht Club and is home to thousands of small recreational boats. It has also, unfortunately, become the dumping area for unwanted and unsalable boats left to sink and become an eyesore and a disruption to safe navigation. In 2022, Cape May City adopted ordinance 481-2022 creating volunteer harbor masters and a required registration process to monitor the use of the harbor. Anyone intending to anchor or moor a boat in the harbor for 30 days or more must submit the registration form below. There is no charge, but there are significant fines for boat owners in violation of 481-2022. The harbor is closed for long term anchorages from November 1st to March 31st. This form needs to be completed and returned to clerk@capemaycity.com. Questions and concerns are welcomed at harbormaster@capemaycity.com

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

ATTENTION CAPE MAY CITY RESIDENTS AND GUESTS!

Storm debris will no longer be picked up on the curbside. All debris will only be accepted at the recycling yard located at the Department of Public Works (830 Canning House Lane) during the following hours:

Monday - Friday 7:00am to 2:45pm and Saturday 8:00am to 12:00pm.

HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
SUMMER HOURS OF OPERATION (Memorial Day through Labor Day): Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM

Click HERE to view Resolution 14-01-2026: Established Holidays for the City of Cape May.

The City of Cape May Public Works Department is responsible for the maintenance of 29.74 miles of roadway, storm sewer system, public buildings, parks, playgrounds, beaches, promenade, and pedestrian mall.

The Department responds to many inquiries, requests, and complaints. To inquire more, please email pubworksdept@capemaycity.com. 

The Public Works Complex includes:

• Administrative & Recycling Offices
• Buildings & Grounds Department
• Streets & Roads Department
• Vehicle Maintenance Department
• Traffic Maintenance Department
• Recycling Station

  • Click HERE for the Central Recycling Station Hours and Operations

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan

Outfall Pipe Locations:

Elmira & Bank Street
Ocean Street
Queen Street
Union Street
Yacht Ave

The Assessor’s office values all real property in the municipality for the purpose of tax assessments, prepares the tax list, maintains records of every parcel, is responsible for maintaining the community’s tax map and aids in educating the public about the assessment function.

2026 Final/2027 Preliminary Tax Bills are currently not available.

Please check back frequently for updates.

The Tax Collector is responsible for billing, collecting, reporting, and enforcement of municipal taxes and assessments. This office is obligated to follow all State Statutes regarding the collection of property taxes including billing, due dates, interest, and tax sale.

General Information:

• Tax bills are to be forwarded upon sale of property between buyer and seller. Failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve the owner from paying taxes, interest applies to all late payments.
• Tax bills are mailed once annually in June or July, once the City of Cape May has received the certified tax rate
• Encompasses the second half of the current year (August & November) as well as an estimated first half of the subsequent year (February & May).
• Should you not receive or misplace your bill, please contact this office for another copy. 
• New Jersey State Law: Whether you receive a bill or not, you are charged with the responsibility to ensure your payments are received on or before the due date.
• Payments can be mailed, paid online, or placed in our drop box located in our parking lot, next to the rear corner of the Fire Department closest to the Washington Street entrance.
• Please notify the tax office of any address change in writing via mail or email.

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ACH Withdrawal: Please complete ACH Form and attach a voided check in advance.

If you are registered for ACH Withdrawal and your property is being sold, please contact the Tax Office for more information prior to settlement.

The Tourism, Civic Affairs and Recreation Department is located at 714 Beach Avenue in Cape May Convention Hall.  This Department has information for our youth summer camp (Camp Cape May), fitness programs, indoor pool programs, Wee Play, and indoor roller skating; as well as information on concerts, craft shows, weddings, meetings and conventions, special events and more.  For more information call 609-884-9565.

*FOR WATER OR SEWER EMERGENCIES THAT OCCUR AFTER HOURS, ON A HOLIDAY, OR WEEKEND PLEASE CALL THE CAPE MAY POLICE DEPARTMENT AT

609-884-9500.

HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM 

SUMMER HOURS OF OPERATION (Memorial Day through Labor Day): Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    
 

Desalination Plant - Columbia University Capstone Spring 2025 - Final Briefing
Desalination Plant - Columbia University Capstone Spring 2025 - Cape May Final Report

The Cape May public water system has served the City since around 1910. From 1950 to 1998, the City was supplied water from three other wells screened in the Cohansey Aquifer and located along the

Pennsylvania Reading Seashore rail line. These wells supplied the City and the only form of water treatment was chlorine for disinfection and sodium silicate for corrosion control and iron sequestering.

Water quality in the Cohansey Aquifer has deteriorated over time and currently the City no longer uses Well Nos. 3 and 4, although Well No. 4 is still listed as an active well for emergency purposes.

Well No. 5, which is located furthest to the north in Lower Township, is still active. The City is currently primarily supplied by the 2 MGD Desalination Facility, which was constructed in 1998.

This facility is supplied by three wells that are screened in the Atlantic City 800-Foot Sand Aquifer. The plant uses reverse osmosis technology to treat the brackish water to potable standards.

The treatment of removing salt from our water wells to produce potable drinking water to our customers and surrounding neighbors has been a very successful endeavor.

We are the first facility in our State and surrounding region to do this for our customers.

*Joe Mendo our Chief Water Plant Operator is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the RO plant. Joe also handles all water quality questions our customers might have, 609-884-9577.

Our Water Distribution, Metering and Sewer Collection has a crew of four (4) employees.

Please call 609-884-9538 for all questions about water/sewer bills. The City of Cape May has over 4,300 water accounts. Water & Sewer payments are paid in the Tax Office.

In the Administrative Office, which is located at 830 Canning House Lane, we handle questions about water/sewer connections, meters, water consumption, and water pressure.