Elmira, N.Y., Code ch. 8, art. V § 8-401
Prohibited accumulations and storage
Operative Text
(a) No highly flammable or explosive matter, such as paints, volatile oils and cleaning fluids, or combustible refuse, such as wastepaper, boxes and rags shall be accumulated or stored on residential premises, except in spaces in conformance with section 8-403 (d). (b) Nothing shall be placed, accumulated or stored on residential premises which obstructs egress from stairways, passageways, doors, windows, fire escapes, or other means of exit, or interferes with the use of firefighting equipment or performance by firefighting personnel.
Elmira Code ch. 8, art. V § 8-401 establishes two related prohibitions for residential properties. First, it bars the accumulation or storage of highly flammable or explosive materials—such as paints, volatile oils, cleaning fluids, and combustible refuse like wastepaper, boxes, and rags—except in spaces that meet the requirements of § 8-403(d). Second, it prohibits placing or storing anything that blocks exits such as stairways, passageways, doors, windows, or fire escapes, or that interferes with firefighting equipment or personnel. Together, these rules are designed to reduce fire hazards and keep evacuation routes clear on residential premises.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Operators of residential properties subject to Elmira Code ch. 8, art. V § 8-401 generally maintain premises free of accumulated flammable or explosive materials outside of code-compliant storage spaces as defined in § 8-403(d). Compliant operators also conduct routine inspections to confirm that stairways, hallways, doors, windows, and fire escapes remain unobstructed and that firefighting equipment is accessible at all times. Keeping records of inspections and promptly addressing any accumulations or blockages are practices commonly associated with ongoing compliance.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under Elmira Code ch. 8, art. V § 8-401, tenants have an interest in living in residential premises free from dangerous accumulations of flammable materials and unobstructed exit routes. If a tenant observes violations—such as blocked stairways, fire escapes, or stored combustible materials outside approved areas—they may report the condition to the appropriate local code enforcement or housing authority in Elmira. Tenants may also wish to consult a local tenant-rights organization to understand how § 8-401 violations could be relevant to habitability concerns or other available remedies.
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 6, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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Rules and statutes that cite this regulation