All such residences which are operated by any individual or individuals, corporation, partnership, society or association, whether public or private, whether incorporated or unincorporated, whether for profit or nonprofit, shall be licensed by the Department of Human Services or Department of Children and Families, as applicable, under appropriate regulations promulgated by the commissioner or the Commissioner of Children and Families, as applicable. Such regulations shall govern the operation and maintenance of residences, and prescribe conditions for admission and discharge of residents. The regulations shall assure that essential life-safety, health and comfort conditions exist in a home-like atmosphere.
N.J.S. § 30:11B-4