Mile Square House

Hoboken guide

Local rules that come up when you own a townhouse in Hoboken or have work done on one.

No-parking signsSnowFloodingHistoric districtsChecking a contractor

Temporary no-parking signs

If a contractor needs curb space (moving truck, lift, dumpster or big delivery), you reserve it with Temporary No Parking signs from the City.

Sign lengthFirst 2 signsEach extra sign
4 hours$32$16
8 hours$52$26
12 hours$84$42
24 hours$124$62
  • Minimum purchase is 2 signs; each sign covers about 15 feet of curb.
  • Construction use costs 20% more.
  • Book 10 days ahead for moves and events, or 3 days ahead for construction.
  • Residential contractors can have at most 2 active signs a day.
  • Signs must come down within 2 hours of expiring, or it's a $45 fine per sign.

Buy through Hoboken Parking Utility (HPU) online or at the HPU window. Questions: 201-420-2000 x1470.

Source: City of Hoboken code and HPU page. Fees can change; check the city site before you book.

Clearing snow: the 6-hour rule

Owners must clear snow and ice from the sidewalk, curb ramps and nearby fire hydrants within 6 hours after snow stops. Don't shovel snow into the street or onto hydrants. Fines run $250 to $2,000.

If you travel or work long days, arrange snow removal before winter starts.

Source: City of Hoboken snow FAQ.

Preparing for flooding

  • Know your flood zone and keep flood insurance current.
  • Clear areaway and backyard drains before storms.
  • If you have a sump pump or backflow valve, test it each spring.
  • Keep valuables off the basement floor; have flood barriers ready June to November.

Historic districts

Parts of Hoboken are historic districts, and exterior changes (windows, doors, stoops, facades) can need review by the Historic Preservation Commission. Repairs that match the original usually go more smoothly. Ask the City before replacing visible exterior features.

See the Hoboken HPC design guidelines.

How to check a contractor

  1. Ask for their NJ Home Improvement Contractor number (starts with 13VH) and look it up on the NJ license lookup.
  2. Plumbers, electricians and HVAC contractors need a state license; check it on the same site.
  3. Ask for a certificate of insurance (liability, plus workers' comp if they have staff).
  4. Get a written estimate and don't pay the full amount upfront.
  5. Ask if they've worked on Hoboken townhouses and know the parking-sign rules.