Hornell, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 178 § 178-20
Prevention of fire spread
Operative Text
A. Maintenance of walls and ceilings. Walls and ceilings shall be maintained free from cracks and openings which would permit flame or excessive heat to enter the concealed space. B. Separation of space in buildings of mixed occupancy. In buildings of mixed occupancy, nonresidential space shall be separated from residential space by approved fire separations which will retard the spread of fire. C. Garages. Garages in or attached to a residential building shall be separated from other spaces in the building by approved fire separations which will retard the spread of fire and prevent flammable or toxic vapors originating within the garage from being transmitted to other parts of the building.
Section 178-20 of Hornell's Code of Ordinances establishes fire-spread prevention requirements for residential buildings. Walls and ceilings must be kept free of cracks or openings that could allow flames or excessive heat into concealed spaces. In mixed-use buildings, nonresidential areas must be separated from residential areas by approved fire separations, and garages that are part of or attached to residential buildings must similarly be separated to block both fire spread and the migration of flammable or toxic vapors.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 178-20, compliant property operators routinely inspect walls and ceilings for cracks or gaps that could compromise fire containment in concealed spaces. In mixed-occupancy buildings, operators ensure that approved fire separations are in place and maintained between commercial and residential areas. For garages attached to or within residential buildings, operators verify that fire separations meet approval standards and are sufficient to prevent vapors as well as flames from reaching other parts of the building.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 178-20 gives residents of Hornell buildings a basis to expect that walls, ceilings, and any shared boundaries with commercial spaces or garages are properly maintained to limit fire spread. If a tenant observes cracks, gaps, or missing fire separations that appear to violate this provision, they may report the condition to the local code enforcement or building inspection office in Hornell. Tenant-rights organizations can help residents understand what documentation to gather and what local complaint processes are 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 7, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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