New Haven, Conn., Code of Ordinances ch. 12½, art. III § 12½-41
Findings
Operative Text
Discrimination against families with minor children exists in the leasing of housing accommodations within the city. The existence of such discrimination poses a substantial threat to the health, safety and welfare of a sizable segment of the community, namely families with children, and is detrimental to the natural diversity of young and old which is essential to community well-being. A shortage of housing suitable for families with minor children exists in all rental housing throughout the city. A low vacancy rate exists in all rental housing throughout the city. Yet, the escalating costs of ownership of housing are driving more families into rental housing. The addition of discrimination against families with minor children to the above three (3) factors creates a dangerous situation for the health, safety and welfare of minor children in the city. The overall effect of such discrimination is to encourage the flight of families from the city and to further diminish family-oriented neighborhoods. It has an overall detrimental effect on the social composition of family life within the city, the living conditions of our children, the quality of our schools, and the viability of children's activities and organizations. This discrimination falls most heavily on families of low and moderate income, but cuts across all racial, ethnic and economic levels.
Section 12½-41 of the New Haven Code of Ordinances sets out the city's formal findings that discrimination against families with minor children in rental housing is a real and documented problem. The provision establishes that this discrimination, combined with low vacancy rates and rising housing costs, creates conditions harmful to the health, safety, and welfare of children and families. It further recognizes that such discrimination undermines neighborhood diversity, school quality, and the overall social fabric of the city, affecting families across all income and ethnic backgrounds.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Section 12½-41 signals that New Haven has made an official legislative determination that family-status discrimination in rental housing is a serious community harm. Operators who understand this findings provision recognize that the broader ordinance it introduces is grounded in documented local conditions, not abstract policy. Compliant property managers generally ensure their leasing practices do not treat families with minor children differently from other prospective or current tenants.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 12½-41 represents New Haven's formal acknowledgment that families with minor children face documented discrimination in the city's rental market. This findings provision forms the legal foundation for the protections that follow in Article III of Chapter 12½, and tenants who believe they have experienced family-status discrimination may reference this legislative backdrop when exploring their options. Tenant-rights organizations in New Haven can help families understand what remedies the broader ordinance may make available.
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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