Hornell, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 178 § 178-15
Exits
Operative Text
A. Safe, continuous and unobstructed exit shall be provided from the interior of the building to the exterior at street or grade level. B. Exits shall be arranged, constructed and proportioned so that occupants may escape safely from the building in case of emergency. C. In one- and two-family dwellings, in addition to a primary exit from the building, there shall be provided a secondary exit or, in lieu thereof, one or more exit openings for emergency use. D. In multiple dwellings, approved exits shall be provided.
Section 178-15 of Hornell's Code of Ordinances establishes that every residential building must have safe, clear, and unobstructed pathways leading from the building's interior to the outside at street or ground level. Exits must be designed and sized so that occupants can escape quickly and safely during an emergency. One- and two-family homes are required to have both a primary exit and a secondary exit or emergency escape opening, while multiple dwellings must have exits that meet approved standards.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Section 178-15, compliant property operators ensure that all exit routes remain free of obstructions, are properly constructed, and lead continuously from the interior to the exterior at grade or street level. Owners of one- and two-family dwellings maintain both a primary exit and at least one secondary exit or emergency escape opening. Operators of multiple dwellings verify that all exits meet the 'approved exits' standard referenced in Section 178-15(D), which typically involves periodic inspection and maintenance to confirm compliance.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 178-15 gives occupants the right to safe, unobstructed exit pathways from their residence to the outside, including secondary or emergency exits in one- and two-family homes and approved exits in multiple dwellings. If exits are blocked, inadequate, or missing, tenants may have grounds to report the condition to Hornell's local code enforcement or housing inspection office. Tenant-rights organizations can help residents understand how a violation of Section 178-15 might be raised as a defense in housing proceedings or pursued through a formal complaint process.
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 7, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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