Hornell, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 178 § 178-22
Fireplaces
Operative Text
A. Installation. Fireplaces and similar construction used or intended to be used for burning fuel in open fires shall be connected to approved chimneys and shall be installed so that nearby or adjacent combustible material and structural members shall not be heated to unsafe temperatures. B. Hearths and linings. Hearths and linings or other parts of fireplaces exposed directly to flame shall be of materials that will not melt, disintegrate, spall or shatter at high temperatures. C. Wooden mantels and trim. Wood mantels and trim on fireplaces shall be placed and attached so that they cannot be heated to unsafe temperatures or ignited by sparks or embers from the fire.
Section 178-22 of Hornell's Code of Ordinances establishes safety standards for fireplaces and similar open-fire burning structures. The rule requires that fireplaces connect to approved chimneys, that hearth and lining materials withstand high temperatures without degrading, and that wooden mantels and trim be positioned so they cannot reach unsafe temperatures or catch sparks or embers. Together, these requirements are designed to prevent fire hazards and structural damage associated with open-burning appliances.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Hornell Code § 178-22, property owners and managers are generally expected to ensure that any fireplace or open-fire burning structure on their property is connected to a code-approved chimney and installed with adequate clearance from combustible materials. Compliant operators typically verify that hearth linings and firebox components are made of heat-resistant materials capable of withstanding direct flame exposure without melting, spalling, or disintegrating. Wooden mantels and decorative trim are positioned and secured at distances that prevent them from reaching unsafe temperatures or being ignited by sparks or embers.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 178-22 of the Hornell Code of Ordinances sets baseline safety standards for fireplaces in rental properties, covering chimney connections, heat-resistant hearth materials, and the safe placement of wooden mantels and trim. If a tenant observes a fireplace that appears to lack an approved chimney connection, has visibly deteriorating firebox materials, or has wooden trim positioned dangerously close to the fire opening, these conditions may constitute a code violation. Tenants who believe a fireplace in their unit does not meet the standards in § 178-22 can document the condition, notify their landlord in writing, and reach out to Hornell's local code enforcement office or a tenant-rights organization for guidance on available options.
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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