Riverhead, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 263 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 263-12
Application for search warrant
Operative Text
The Code Enforcement Official is authorized to make application to any court of competent jurisdiction for the issuance of a search warrant in order to conduct an inspection of any premises covered by this chapter where the owner refuses or fails to allow an inspection of its rental premises and where there is reasonable cause to believe that a violation of this chapter has occurred. The application for a search warrant shall in all respects comply with the applicable laws of the State of New York.
Section 263-12 of Riverhead's Code of Ordinances establishes that the Code Enforcement Official has the legal authority to seek a court-issued search warrant when a property owner refuses or fails to permit an inspection of rental premises. This warrant pathway is available when there is reasonable cause to believe a violation of Chapter 263 has occurred. Any warrant application must fully comply with applicable New York State law.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 263-12, a property owner who refuses or fails to allow an inspection of rental premises covered by Chapter 263 may face a court-authorized search warrant obtained by the Code Enforcement Official. Operators who maintain open communication with enforcement officials and accommodate scheduled inspections generally avoid the warrant process altogether. Familiarity with the inspection requirements of Chapter 263 helps property managers understand when and how access requests may be made.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 263-12 provides a mechanism that supports enforcement of Chapter 263's rental housing standards even when a property owner refuses to cooperate with inspections. If a tenant believes conditions at their rental unit may constitute a violation of Chapter 263, they may consider contacting Riverhead's Code Enforcement office, which has the authority to pursue a court-issued search warrant if access is denied. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with New York State housing law can help residents understand how this enforcement process may relate to their situation.
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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