State law applies here too. Where both cover a rental, the stricter city rule usually wins; each rule below says so.
New Jersey lawDepends on the building
NJ Security Deposit Law – cap, handling, interest and return
How big can the deposit be?
Max 1.5 months' rent.
They must return it within 30 days of move-out, with interest.
Depends on the number of units or whether the owner lives in the building.
Who it covers
Not owner-occupied buildings with 3 units or fewer.
Exemptions: Owner-occupied two- or three-family dwellings unless the tenant sends a written request; interest rules do not apply to seasonal rentals.
The law, word for word
“The maximum-security deposit to be collected by the landlord cannot be more than
one and one-half times one month’s rent ( N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.2 ). …”
N.J.S.A. 46:8-21.2 · nj.gov · Retrieved Oct 1, 2026
Quote checked word for word
No other rule found
West New York's code (ch. 312) has no local security-deposit rule. It only says a security deposit is not 'rent'. State law (1.5 months' rent cap, handling and return rules) governs.
The law, word for word
“Security deposit and charges for accessories, such as boats and/or automobiles, not used in connection with the housing space shall not be construed as rent …”