Jamestown, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 215 § 215-11
Basements and cellars
Operative Text
The basement or cellar of any building shall be free from standing water. It shall be ventilated and free of garbage and/or refuse accumulation or infestation.
Section 215-11 of Jamestown's Code of Ordinances establishes baseline sanitary and structural standards for basements and cellars in any building. Specifically, these spaces must be kept free of standing water, adequately ventilated, and clear of accumulated garbage, refuse, or pest infestations. The rule applies broadly to any building within the jurisdiction, regardless of use or occupancy type.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 215-11, compliant property operators routinely inspect basements and cellars for standing water, ensuring drainage systems and waterproofing measures are functioning properly. They also maintain adequate ventilation in these spaces and arrange for regular removal of garbage or refuse to prevent accumulation or pest infestations. Keeping dated maintenance and inspection records can help demonstrate ongoing compliance with this provision.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 215-11 gives occupants a basis to raise concerns if a basement or cellar in their building has standing water, poor ventilation, garbage buildup, or signs of infestation. Tenants who observe these conditions may report them to Jamestown's local code enforcement or housing inspection office, which has authority to investigate potential violations of this provision. Tenant-rights organizations in the area can also help explain what options are generally available when habitability standards under local ordinances are not being met.
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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