Mount Vernon, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 149 § 149-22
Fireplaces
Operative Text
A. 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 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. 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 149-22 of Mount Vernon's Code of Ordinances establishes safety standards for fireplaces and similar open-fire burning structures. Under this provision, fireplaces must connect to approved chimneys, and all components—including hearths, linings, and wood mantels—must be constructed and positioned to prevent dangerous heat transfer, ignition, or material failure. The rule covers the full assembly: from the firebox and its heat-resistant lining to the decorative wood trim that frames it.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers with fireplaces covered by § 149-22 generally ensure that each unit's fireplace is connected to a code-approved chimney and that no combustible structural members are placed close enough to reach unsafe temperatures during normal use. Compliant operators typically use heat-resistant materials for hearths and fireplace linings and verify that wood mantels and trim are installed at distances and with attachments that prevent ignition from sparks or embers. Routine inspections and documentation of fireplace components help demonstrate ongoing compliance with the standards set out in ch. 149 § 149-22.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Tenants living in units with fireplaces have an interest in knowing that § 149-22 requires landlords to maintain fireplaces with approved chimneys, fire-resistant linings, and safely positioned wood mantels. If a fireplace appears to have cracked or deteriorating linings, improperly attached wood trim, or a chimney connection that seems unapproved, these conditions may represent a violation of ch. 149 § 149-22. Tenants can report suspected violations to the appropriate Mount Vernon building or housing code enforcement office, or consult a local tenant-rights organization to understand 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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