N.Y.C. Admin. Code tit. 27, ch. 2 § 27-2010
Cleaning of roofs, yards, courts and other open spaces (New York City Housing Maintenance Code)
Operative Text
The owner of a dwelling containing two or more dwelling units, and the occupant of a single family dwelling shall keep the roof, yard, courts and other open spaces clean and free from dirt, filth, garbage or other offensive material.
Under N.Y.C. Admin. Code §§ 27-2001 et seq. § 27-2010, owners of buildings with two or more dwelling units bear responsibility for keeping roofs, yards, courts, and other open spaces clear of dirt, filth, garbage, and similar offensive material. Occupants of single-family dwellings carry the same obligation for their own open spaces. The rule establishes a baseline cleanliness standard for all exterior and open areas associated with a dwelling.
Plain English — not legal advice.
N.Y.C. Admin. Code §§ 27-2001 et seq. § 27-2010 places the maintenance burden for roofs, yards, courts, and open spaces squarely on the owner of any multi-unit dwelling. Compliant operators typically establish regular cleaning schedules, arrange for timely garbage removal, and conduct periodic inspections of all exterior areas to prevent accumulation of debris or refuse. Documented maintenance logs 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.
N.Y.C. Admin. Code §§ 27-2001 et seq. § 27-2010 gives tenants in multi-unit buildings a basis to expect that the owner keeps shared open spaces—roofs, yards, and courts—free from garbage and filth. If those areas are not being maintained, tenants may file a complaint with the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, which enforces housing maintenance standards. Tenant-rights organizations in New York City can also explain additional options available under this provision.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated September 30, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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