Poughkeepsie, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 12 § 12-78
Stormwater drainage
Operative Text
(a) Stormwater shall be properly drained to prevent recurrent or excessive ponding or the entrance of water into any basement or cellar. (b) The ground surrounding the structure shall, when practical, be graded away from the building and foundation. Conductors or drain pipes, where utilized, shall function properly. Stormwater sewers, approved combined storm and sanitary sewers, dry wells or other satisfactory drainage systems shall be used when necessary.
Poughkeepsie, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 12 § 12-78 establishes that stormwater around residential structures must be managed so that water does not repeatedly or excessively pool on the property or seep into basements and cellars. Where feasible, the ground should slope away from the building's foundation, and any gutters, downspouts, or drain pipes on the property must be kept in working order. When needed, approved drainage systems—such as stormwater sewers, combined sewers, or dry wells—must be employed to handle runoff adequately.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under ch. 12 § 12-78, compliant property operators generally ensure that the grading around their buildings directs water away from foundations wherever the terrain allows, and that all conductors, downspouts, and drain pipes are inspected and maintained in functional condition. When site conditions create drainage challenges, operators typically connect to or install an approved drainage system—such as a stormwater sewer or dry well—rather than allowing water to pond recurrently near the structure. Keeping records of drainage inspections and any corrective work 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.
Section 12-78 of the Poughkeepsie Code of Ordinances gives tenants a basis to raise concerns when stormwater repeatedly pools around a building or when water enters a basement or cellar due to inadequate drainage. Tenants who observe these conditions may consider documenting the problem with photographs and written records, and can report potential violations to the City of Poughkeepsie's code enforcement office. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with local housing codes can help explain what options may be available, including raising a code violation as part of a broader housing complaint.
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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