New Britain, Conn., Code of Ordinances ch. 13 § 13-121
Lighting in public halls and stairways in multiple dwellings
Operative Text
(a) Every public hall and stairway in every multiple dwelling shall be adequately lighted by natural or artificial light at all times, so as to provide at least six (6) footcandles of light at tread or floor level. (b) Every hall or stairway in structures devoted solely to dwelling occupancy and containing not more than two (2) dwelling units shall be supplied with conveniently located light switches controlling an adequate lighting system which may be turned on when needed, as an alternative to the furnishing of full-time lighting.
New Britain Code of Ordinances ch. 13, art. II, div. 5 § 13-121 establishes minimum lighting standards for shared interior spaces in residential buildings. In multiple dwellings, public halls and stairways must maintain at least six footcandles of illumination at floor or tread level at all times, using either natural or artificial light. Buildings with only one or two dwelling units have a limited alternative: rather than keeping lights on continuously, they may instead provide conveniently placed switches that allow occupants to activate adequate lighting as needed.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 13-121, operators of multiple dwellings generally ensure that all public halls and stairways are continuously lit to at least six footcandles at floor and tread level, whether through natural light, artificial fixtures, or a combination of both. For smaller residential structures containing no more than two dwelling units, a compliant operator typically installs conveniently located light switches that give occupants ready control over an adequate lighting system. Routine inspections of bulbs, fixtures, and switch functionality help demonstrate ongoing compliance with this provision.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 13-121 gives residents of multiple dwellings the right to adequately lit public halls and stairways at all times, with a minimum of six footcandles at floor level. If lighting in shared corridors or stairwells falls below this standard, tenants may document the condition and report it to the relevant New Britain housing or building inspection authority. Tenant-rights organizations can also help residents understand available options, including raising a lighting deficiency as part of a broader habitability concern.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 11, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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