Ocean County Government

Call Directions Website Contact the organization

Ocean County Government Official page for Ocean County Government. This site is not monitored 24/7, call 911 for emergencies. On Feb. 15, 1850, Ocean County came into being.

This friendly, family-oriented County, located along the beautiful Atlantic coast, continues to be among NJ fastest-growing counties. It was then comprised of the townships of Brick, Toms River, Jackson, Plumsted, Stafford, and Union (Barnegat), which, in the aggregate, had previously been the portion of Monmouth County lying south of the Manasquan River. In 1891, Little Egg Harbor merged into the new political subdivision. Over time, this vast geographic area was carved into the 33 municipalities. The 1850 census pegged Ocean County's population at 10,043 residents. One hundred years later it had reached 56,622. Today, as a result of unprecedented growth in the past three decades, more than 580,000 people call Ocean County home. Ocean County is the second-largest county in the state containing 638 square miles of pine barrens and barrier islands and a 45-mile coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. Toms River was selected as the "seat" of the new County government. On May 8, 1850, the first Board of Chosen Freeholders, consisting of two representatives from each of the six original townships, selected insignia to represent the public officials of the time. The sloop, schooner, and steamboat are still the official seals of the now Board of Commissioners, County Clerk, and Surrogate, respectively. The choice of these symbols reflects the rich maritime tradition of the area.

10/23/2026

Preserving land is just the beginning, restoring habitats helps ensure Ocean County’s natural resources can thrive for generations to come.

At Long Swamp Preserve, the Ocean County Natural Lands Trust Fund is supporting a first-of-its-kind County restoration project. Once a farm field overtaken by a single tree species, the property is being restored to encourage diverse plant growth and create healthier habitats for local wildlife, including ground-nesting birds.

The Ocean County Natural Lands Trust Fund has helped preserve more than 30,000 acres since 1998, protecting forests, wetlands, farmland, water resources and open space throughout Ocean County. The County also works to restore habitats and improve natural areas, including projects that support healthier ecosystems and environmental resilience.

This November, Ocean County voters will consider increasing the Trust Fund’s funding rate from 1.2 cents to 2.2 cents per $100 of total County equalized real property valuation to support continued preservation efforts, including future acquisitions, maintenance and cleanup, and habitat protection.

Learn more about the Natural Lands Trust Fund and the proposed funding increase by visiting www.oceancountyopenspace.org

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners encourages residents looking to get rid of old prescription medications to take ...
10/23/2026

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners encourages residents looking to get rid of old prescription medications to take part in National Takeback Day on Saturday, Oct. 24.

Take advantage of this opportunity and bring any unwanted or outdated prescription medication to the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office's drop-off site located in front of the Ocean County Library, located at 101 Washington Street, in Toms River, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

The Ocean County Youth Center is bringing youth and families together for a fun-filled Trunk or Treat on TODAY, Oct. 23,...
10/23/2026

The Ocean County Youth Center is bringing youth and families together for a fun-filled Trunk or Treat on TODAY, Oct. 23, from 5 to 7 p.m. at 155 Sunset Avenue in Toms River!

From creative decorated trunks to plenty of treats, it’s a great opportunity for local families to enjoy the season, connect with their community and see the positive programs and activities taking place at the Youth Center.

During its Oct. 21 meeting, the Ocean County Board of Commissioners was joined by members of Community Medical Center to...
10/23/2026

During its Oct. 21 meeting, the Ocean County Board of Commissioners was joined by members of Community Medical Center to proclaim Ocean County a Stroke Smart County in support of the “Stroke Smart: Spot-a-Stroke, Stop-a-Stroke, Save-a-Life” campaign.

The initiative raises awareness of stroke warning signs and emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms and calling 911 immediately. Early recognition and rapid emergency care can help save lives and improve outcomes for stroke patients.

Ocean County remains committed to promoting public education, raising community awareness and fostering collaboration to help protect the health and well-being of our residents.

Director Frank Sadeghi | Deputy Director Jennifier Bacchione | Commissioner Robert Arace | Commissioner Sam Ellenbogen | Commissioner Ray Gormley

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners was joined by the Ocean County Department of Human Services and the Ocean County...
10/22/2026

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners was joined by the Ocean County Department of Human Services and the Ocean County Mental Health Board to proclaim Ocean County a Stigma-Free County in support of the New Jersey Stigma-Free initiative.

Since 2015, the Ocean County Mental Health Awareness Committee has encouraged municipalities to join the New Jersey Stigma-Free Zone initiative, advocating for mental health awareness and working to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness.

The initiative promotes education, open conversations and connections to resources, helping foster a community where individuals feel supported in seeking help without fear of judgment.

The Board of Commissioners commends the Ocean County Mental Health Board and its community partners for their continued efforts to raise awareness, break down barriers and help ensure residents know they are not alone.

Director Frank Sadeghi | Deputy Director Jennifier Bacchione | Commissioner Robert Arace | Commissioner Sam Ellenbogen | Commissioner Ray Gormley

During the Oct. 21 Board meeting, Commissioner Robert Arace, on behalf of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners, joine...
10/22/2026

During the Oct. 21 Board meeting, Commissioner Robert Arace, on behalf of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners, joined with the Ocean County Information Technology Department in recognizing October as "Cybersecurity Awareness Month."

This year’s theme, “Securing the Next 250,” recognizes the nation's 250th anniversary and focuses on building a secure digital future for America’s next era.

Whether at home, at work, or in our schools, we all play a role in safeguarding our digital lives.

Scammers are becoming more sophisticated with fake bank alerts, and the Ocean County Board of Commissioners encourages r...
10/22/2026

Scammers are becoming more sophisticated with fake bank alerts, and the Ocean County Board of Commissioners encourages residents to stay alert when unexpected messages claim there’s “suspicious activity” on your account. Before you respond, keep these tips from the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs in mind to protect yourself.

The Rutgers Master Gardeners of Ocean County will be at the County Connection to answer your questions on plants and ins...
10/21/2026

The Rutgers Master Gardeners of Ocean County will be at the County Connection to answer your questions on plants and insects, as well as provide tips on the latest gardening trends and upcoming programs.

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners appreciates everything that the Master Gardeners continue to do to help Ocean County and the positive difference their work makes in our communities.

10/21/2026

Remember to dispose of your Lithium-Ion batteries properly at the Northern Recycling Center in Lakewood, NJ or Southern Recycling Center in Manahawkin, NJ. Do NOT dispose of Lithium-Ion batteries in your home waste receptacles.

EARLY VOTING BEGINS SOON! Skip the lines and vote at your convenience! New Jersey offers in-person early voting for the ...
10/21/2026

EARLY VOTING BEGINS SOON!

Skip the lines and vote at your convenience! New Jersey offers in-person early voting for the 2026 General Election:

📅 Early Voting Period:
Saturday, October 24 – Sunday, November 1

🕙 Hours:
Monday–Saturday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

📍 You can vote at ANY early voting location in your county, regardless of your municipality. No appointment needed!

For more information, visit the Office of the Ocean County Clerk's website: https://oceancountyclerk.com/

Address

101 Hooper Avenue
Toms River, NJ
08753

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+17322442121

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Ocean County Government posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organization

Send a message to Ocean County Government:

Shortcuts

Share