Elmira Town, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 170 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 170-2
Definitions
Operative Text
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning: AGENT A person 18 years of age or older or entity designated by the owner on the registry form who, by such owner designation, shall have the authority to make decisions regarding the management and maintenance of any and all dwelling units owned by the owner and located within the Town. BUILDING A structure containing one or more dwelling units rented or being offered for rental. CODE The state uniform fire prevention and building code, as amended. CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER The Code Enforcement Officer of the Town or his/her designee. DEPARTMENT Town's Code Enforcement Department. DWELLING UNIT A residential accommodation which is arranged, designed, used or, if vacant, intended for use exclusively as a domicile or residence of one or more persons. OWNER The owner of the freehold of the premises or lesser estate therein, a mortgagee or vendee in possession, assignee of rents, receiver, executor, administrator, trustee or agent. PERSON An individual or any entity which lawfully can be the fee owner of real property.
Section 170-2 of Elmira Town's Code of Ordinances Chapter 170 establishes the working definitions for all terms used throughout the chapter's rental property regulations. Key terms defined include 'Agent,' 'Building,' 'Dwelling Unit,' 'Owner,' and 'Person,' each carrying a specific legal meaning within this regulatory framework. These definitions set the boundaries for who and what is subject to the chapter's requirements, and they govern how the rules are interpreted whenever those terms appear.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 170-2, property owners in Elmira Town should be aware that the definition of 'Owner' is broad, encompassing not just fee owners but also mortgagees, receivers, trustees, and agents in possession. Compliant operators typically ensure that any designated 'Agent' listed on the registry form is at least 18 years of age and is genuinely authorized to make management and maintenance decisions for all covered dwelling units. Understanding these definitions helps operators correctly identify which structures and individuals fall within the scope of Chapter 170's obligations.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 170-2 establishes that a 'Dwelling Unit' under Elmira Town Code Chapter 170 includes any residential space arranged or intended for use as a domicile, even if currently vacant. Tenants benefit from knowing that the 'Owner' category is defined broadly, meaning multiple parties — not just the direct landlord — may bear responsibility under this chapter. Tenants who have questions about how these definitions apply to their housing situation may wish to contact the Town's Code Enforcement Department or consult a local tenant-rights organization for general guidance.
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.
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