Port Jefferson, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 161 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 161-13
Stairs and railings
Operative Text
A. Stairs, both interior and exterior, shall be of sufficient width in conformity with generally accepted standards so as to serve the occupants. B. Railings or equivalent shall be provided on open portions of stairs, balconies, landings and stairwells.
Section 161-13 of Port Jefferson's Code of Ordinances establishes baseline safety standards for stairs and railings in residential properties. It requires that all stairs—whether inside or outside a building—be wide enough to safely accommodate the people using them, in line with generally accepted standards. Additionally, any open edges of stairs, balconies, landings, and stairwells must be equipped with railings or an equivalent protective barrier.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Port Jefferson Code § 161-13, compliant property operators ensure that all interior and exterior stairways meet width standards consistent with generally accepted building practices for the number of occupants served. They also install and maintain railings or equivalent barriers along any open sides of stairs, balconies, landings, and stairwells. Routine inspections of these features help confirm that railings remain structurally sound and that stair widths have not been compromised by alterations or obstructions.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 161-13 of the Port Jefferson Code gives occupants a right to stairs that are safely wide and to railings or equivalent barriers on open portions of stairs, balconies, landings, and stairwells. If these features are missing, damaged, or inadequate, tenants may report the condition to the appropriate Port Jefferson municipal code enforcement office, which has authority to inspect and require corrections. Tenant-rights organizations can also help residents understand how a landlord's failure to comply with § 161-13 might be raised in housing proceedings.
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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