Monroe, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 40 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 40-21
Definitions
Operative Text
As used in this article, the following words shall have the meanings indicated: DWELLING UNIT A structure or lawfully demised portion thereof designed and approved to be occupied as a residence by one " family" as defined in § 57-3 ( family). FAMILY For the purpose of this article, "family" shall mean as set forth in § 57-3 (family). IMMEDIATE FAMILY For the purpose of this article immediate family shall mean as set forth in § 57-3 (Family). INDEPENDENT STATE CERTIFIED CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICIAL An independent New York State trained and certified code enforcement inspector, who is not employed by the Town of Monroe or is an employee of the owner of the property being certified. LEASE An agreement by the owner or agent of a dwelling unit to allow the use of real property or occupancy of a dwelling unit on a non-transient basis (as defined in § 57-3 ) to a person or persons whether or not such agreement is in writing or whether or not such agreement is in exchange for compensation. LESSEE (RENTER) A person or family that occupies a dwelling unit or uses real property by lease with the owner. MANAGING AGENT Any individual, business entity, enterprise, trust, association, public utility or other legal entity responsible for the maintenance or operation of any residential rental property. OWNER Any person, business entity, or association who, alone or jointly with others, holds a fee interest in real property with or without accompanying actual possession thereof; or a managing agent who is responsible for the maintenance and/or operation of real property; or an executor, administrator, trustee, receiver or guardian of an estate; or a mortgagee who has secured a judgment of foreclosure and sale, or who is in possession, title or control of real property, including but not limited to a bank or lending institution, regardless of how such judgment, possession, title or control was obtained. RENTAL DWELLING A dwelling unit that has been leased.
Section 40-21 of Monroe, N.Y., Code of Ordinances Chapter 40 establishes the foundational vocabulary used throughout the article governing residential rentals. Key terms such as "owner," "lessee," "lease," "dwelling unit," and "managing agent" are each given specific meanings that apply whenever those words appear in the article. Notably, the definition of "owner" is broad, encompassing not only fee-title holders but also managing agents, estate representatives, and foreclosing mortgagees. These definitions shape how all other provisions in the article are interpreted and applied.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 40-21, the term "owner" is defined broadly enough to include managing agents and others who control or operate residential rental property, meaning compliance obligations in this article may attach to parties beyond just the deed holder. Property managers and agents operating in Monroe should be aware that their role may place them within the article's definition of "owner" and subject them to its requirements. Operators generally maintain clear documentation of their authority and relationship to the property to ensure accountability under the article's framework. Familiarity with cross-referenced definitions in § 57-3, particularly for "family," is also part of understanding the full scope of these terms.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 40-21 defines "lessee" to include any person or family occupying a dwelling unit under a lease, and importantly, § 40-21 clarifies that a lease need not be written or involve compensation to qualify as such under the article. This means tenants in informal or uncompensated arrangements may still fall within the article's protections and obligations. Tenants who are uncertain whether their living situation qualifies as a "rental dwelling" or "lease" under this provision may find it useful to consult a tenant-rights organization familiar with Monroe, N.Y., ordinances. Understanding these definitions can be relevant when raising rights or defenses under other sections of Chapter 40.
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 10, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
Effective Timeline
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