Fort Lee Ordinance 2025-17

The Borough of Fort Lee has enacted Ordinance 2025‑17, mandating regular structural inspections of parking garages to promote safety and enhance long-term durability. This ordinance is applicable to the majority of commercial and multi‑family residential properties containing parking structures.

KEY PROVISIONS OF ORDINANCE 2025‑17

• Applies To: The ordinance covers most commercial and multi-family residential properties with parking garages. However, wood‑frame garages are exempt from these requirements.

• Inspection Requirement: Owners must ensure their parking structures undergo regular structural inspections as mandated by the ordinance.

• Initial Deadline: Structures that are five years old or older must comply with the inspection deadline of December 31, 2026 as set forth in the ordinance.

• Reporting: After inspections, owners are required to submit reports detailing the condition of the parking garages in accordance with the ordinance.

• Condition Ratings: Inspected structures will be assigned condition ratings. Those classified as Unsafe must be repaired promptly and have follow-up reporting performed.

Structures that are classified as Unsafe must be repaired without delay. Once repairs are completed, owners are required to submit follow-up reports documenting the corrective actions and current condition of the parking garage. This process ensures that safety concerns are promptly addressed and monitored over time.

Parking garages are subject to harsh environmental conditions that can accelerate structural deterioration. This ordinance is intended to identify issues early, allowing owners to address problems before they become severe. By complying with the inspection and reporting requirements, owners can help protect the safety of the public and building occupants, reduce exposure to liability risks, avoid costly emergency repairs and violations, and better plan for future repairs and capital improvements.

HOW BECHT CAN HELP

Becht’s structural engineers bring extensive experience in evaluating parking structures and guiding owners through local inspection requirements. Our team provides NJ licensed professional engineering inspections, clear and ordinance‑compliant reports, and practical recommendations for repairs and ongoing monitoring. We also offer repair design and construction support, along with long‑term planning to help owners prepare for future inspection cycles. Our goal goes beyond meeting compliance requirements - we help you make smart, informed decisions about the condition, safety, and longevity of your structure. Planning ahead for the 2026 deadline allows time for inspections, budgeting, and any necessary repairs without last‑minute pressure.

Contact Becht at 800.772.7991 or information@bechtbt.com to discuss your Fort Lee parking structure and compliance with Ordinance 2025‑17.