Chenango, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 36A (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 36A-2
Word usage; definitions
Operative Text
A. For the purpose of this chapter, certain words or phrases herein shall be interpreted as follows, except where the context clearly indicates the contrary. Words used in the singular include the plural, words used in the present tense include the future tense, the word "person" includes a corporation as well as an individual, and the word "shall" is always mandatory. B. For the purpose of this chapter, certain terms or words herein shall be interpreted as follows: DISCRIMINATORY HOUSING PRACTICE An act that is unlawful under §§ 36A-3 , 36A-4 and 36A-5 . DWELLING Any building, structure or portion thereof which is occupied as, or designed or intended for occupancy as, a residence by one or more families, and any vacant land which is offered for sale or lease for the construction or location thereon of any such building, structure or portion thereof. FAMILY Includes a single individual. PERSON Includes one or more individuals, corporations, partnerships, associations, labor organizations, legal representatives, mutual companies, joint-stock companies, trusts, unincorporated organizations, trustees, trustees in bankruptcy, receivers and fiduciaries. TO RENT Includes to lease, to sublease, to let and otherwise to grant for a consideration the right to occupy premises not owned by the occupant.
Section 36A-2 of Chenango's fair housing ordinance establishes the foundational vocabulary used throughout Chapter 36A. Key terms such as "dwelling," "family," "person," and "discriminatory housing practice" are given broad definitions — for example, a "family" can be a single individual, and a "person" encompasses corporations and other legal entities, not just natural persons. The word "shall" throughout the chapter carries mandatory force, and definitions apply in both singular and plural contexts unless the surrounding text clearly indicates otherwise.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating in Chenango should be aware that the definitions in § 36A-2 set the interpretive framework for all obligations and prohibitions in Chapter 36A. Because "dwelling" is defined broadly to include any structure or portion thereof designed for residential occupancy — as well as vacant land offered for residential development — a wide range of properties may fall under the chapter's scope. Compliant operators generally familiarize themselves with these definitions before assessing their responsibilities under §§ 36A-3, 36A-4, and 36A-5.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Tenants in Chenango benefit from the broad definitions established in § 36A-2, which extend the chapter's protections to a wide range of housing situations and individuals. Because "family" includes a single individual and "to rent" covers leases, subleases, and other arrangements granting occupancy rights, many living situations are covered under Chapter 36A. Those who believe a "discriminatory housing practice" as defined here may have occurred can explore options such as contacting a local tenant-rights organization or reviewing the specific prohibited acts outlined in §§ 36A-3, 36A-4, and 36A-5.
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 9, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
Effective Timeline
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