Union City Municipal Ordinances: What You Need to Know

You live or do business in Union City.  You pride yourself on being a good citizen and do your best to follow the rules.  There’s one problem.  You really don’t know much about Union City’s municipal ordinances.  Does this mean you could potentially find yourself in trouble?

In your spare time, you might consider reviewing the city’s local law.  Admittedly that would be a daunting task.  It could also provide you with more information than you need to know.  You might even limit your research to specific areas.  All things considered, you may not even learn about a municipal ordinance until you have received a violation notice.

Some make the mistake of thinking that municipal violations are inconsequential.  They figure you can’t go to jail for some routine offense.  They assume that fines are small change.  In some cases, this may be true.  However, let’s delve into Union City’s municipal code to find some exceptions.  Often, these are reasons that people seek the assistance of an experienced municipal court attorney.

Union City Municipal Violations

It goes without saying that municipal ordinances only apply to particular communities.  Therefore, the local law in Union City may be different than the one followed in Jersey City or Hoboken.  Let’s take a look at some common municipal code violations in Union City.

Licensing of Businesses and Occupations: Are you in a business that requires the issuance of a license from the Division of Health or License Inspector?  The local license requirements may be in addition to state mandates.  Did you know that your license must be displayed, and include your photograph?

Failure to follow the rules regarding licensing of your business is a serious offense.  You can read more about this in Chapter 234 of Union City’s municipal code.  If you fail to comply with any part of the local licensing law, you could find yourself in the county jail for up to ninety days.  You can also expect to be fined up to $500.

Lewd and Indecent Behavior: Chapter 296 of Union City’s municipal ordinances deals with lewd and indecent behavior.  It covers the law on public nudity and public urination.  Additionally, there is a standard for establishments selling alcoholic beverages within the city.  There are expectations as far as preventing brawls and lewd or immoral behavior.

So, is it a big deal if you decided to relieve yourself in a public street?  Possibly. You could find yourself facing the following penalties:

• Fine of up to $1,000 (with a minimum of $100 for the first offense)
• Imprisonment of no more than 90 days in the county jail
• Community service for a period not to exceed 90 days
• Combination of any of the preceding penalties

These are just two examples of penalties for municipal ordinance violations.  These cases are heard before the municipal court judge.  This is the same judge who presides over traffic offenses and other cases involving select state statutes.

Contact Us

Have you received notice of a violation in Union City?  The Law Offices of Anthony Carbone can assist you.  Contact our office to find out how we can help.

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