Owego, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 55 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 55-3
Definitions and word usage
Operative Text
A. Definitions (general). For the purpose of this chapter, certain words or phrases herein shall be interpreted as follows, except where the context clearly indicates the contrary: Words used in the singular include the plural, words used in the present tense include the future tense, the word "person" includes a corporation as well as an individual, and the word "shall" is always mandatory. B. Definitions (specific words or phrases). For the purpose of this chapter, certain terms or words herein shall be interpreted as follows: DISCRIMINATORY HOUSING PRACTICE An act that is unlawful under §§ 55-4 through 55-6 . DWELLING Any building, structure, or portion thereof which is occupied as, or designed or intended for occupancy as, a residence by one or more families, and any vacant land which is offered for sale or lease for the construction or location thereon of any such building, structure, or portion thereof. FAMILY Includes a single individual. PERSON Includes one or more of individuals, corporations, partnerships, associations, labor organizations, legal representatives, mutual companies, joint-stock companies, trusts, unincorporated organizations, trustees, trustees in bankruptcy, receivers, and fiduciaries. TO RENT Includes to lease, to sublease, to let and otherwise to grant for a consideration the right to occupy premises not owned by the occupant.
Section 55-3 of Owego, N.Y., Code of Ordinances Chapter 55 establishes the foundational vocabulary used throughout the chapter's fair housing rules. Key terms such as 'dwelling,' 'family,' 'person,' and 'to rent' are defined broadly — for example, a single individual qualifies as a 'family,' and 'person' encompasses corporations and other legal entities, not just natural persons. The word 'shall,' wherever it appears in the chapter, carries mandatory force, and defined terms generally apply in both singular and plural forms.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating in Owego should be aware that Chapter 55, § 55-3 defines the scope of who and what is covered by the local fair housing ordinance. Because 'dwelling' is defined broadly to include any building or portion thereof designed for residential occupancy, and 'to rent' encompasses leasing, subleasing, and similar arrangements, a wide range of rental activities fall within the chapter's reach. Compliant operators familiarize themselves with these definitions so that obligations arising in §§ 55-4 through 55-6 are applied correctly across all covered transactions.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 55-3 of Owego's Chapter 55 sets out definitions that determine who is protected and what housing situations are covered under the local fair housing framework. Notably, the broad definition of 'family' — which includes a single individual — means that households of any size or composition may be entitled to the chapter's protections. Tenants who believe a covered practice has affected them can review §§ 55-4 through 55-6 to understand what conduct is prohibited, and may wish to consult 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 9, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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