Middle Twp. introduces business registration

MIDDLE TOWNSHIP — For the first time, businesses will have to register with the township under an ordinance approved Monday in a unanimous vote by the Township Committee.

There was no discussion and no comment from the public on the ordinance at a public hearing required before the final vote. Business owners will have until Jan. 1 to get a business license, at a cost of $75.

The approved ordinance includes a requirement that the business be insured.

The township has discussed mercantile licenses in the past, usually in the context of it being one of the few communities that did not require one.

In a statement issued Tuesday morning, the township indicated the new rule came in response to a state law.

The township statement cited an August 2022 law that requires owners of businesses or rental units to register their certificate of insurance with a municipality.

"Without a business licensing system, the township had no way to enforce the state law," the township statement reads.

Business owners and owners of rental units are required to maintain liability insurance policies of at least $500,000. Those who own a multifamily home of four or fewer units, one of which is owner-occupied, are required to maintain liability insurance policies of at least $300,000.

The owners must provide proof of insurance to the municipality each year.

"The township has a legal responsibility to follow state mandates," said Mayor Tim Donohue. "Our goal in forming this ordinance was to create an affordable and convenient process for businesses to obtain licenses."

The ordinance applies to permanent, year-round businesses as well as all transient and seasonal businesses, such as landscapers. Contractors, builders and other businesses that are based outside of Middle but operate within the township also will need business registration licenses.