The City of North Wildwood is undergoing a transformation with a new ordinance that aims to reshape its development landscape by prohibiting hotels and motels as permitted or conditional uses. This decision comes in response to a trend of declining construction of new hotels and motels, coupled with the conversion of existing properties into condominiums.

Mayor Patrick T. Rosenello highlighted the need for this change, emphasizing that the original intent of land use regulations was for hotels and motels to operate as single business entities, not individual units owned by residents. The ordinance, which amends Chapter 276 of the North Wildwood City Code, prohibits hotels and motels as permitted and conditional uses across all zoning districts. This regulation applies to existing properties and new developments, aiming to address enforcement challenges associated with converted properties.

Moving forward, developers seeking to construct new hotels or motels must demonstrate to the Planning Board that the facility will operate as a single business entity for transient use. This measure is designed to uphold the purpose of transient lodging and promote cohesive, business-run entities in the hospitality sector.

It is important to note that this ordinance does not apply to the North Wildwood marina area, where the Ocean Bay Spires project is still in progress. While the city is evolving, this ban on motels and hotels signifies a new chapter in North Wildwood’s development.