Riverhead, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 263 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 263-13
Search without warrant restricted
Operative Text
Nothing in this chapter, except for provisions concerning emergency inspections, shall be deemed to authorize the Code Enforcement Official to conduct an inspection of any premises subject to this chapter without the consent of the owner of the premises and without a warrant duly issued by an appropriate court.
Section 263-13 of Riverhead's Code of Ordinances Chapter 263 limits the authority of the Code Enforcement Official to inspect rental premises. Except in emergency situations specifically addressed elsewhere in the chapter, an inspection may only proceed if the property owner consents or if a warrant has been issued by an appropriate court. This provision reflects constitutional protections against unreasonable searches and ensures that routine code enforcement inspections follow a defined legal process.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 263-13, a compliant property owner in Riverhead understands that the Code Enforcement Official generally cannot enter and inspect a property without either the owner's consent or a court-issued warrant, outside of emergency circumstances. Operators who are aware of this provision know they have the right to withhold consent to an uninvited inspection and to require that officials obtain proper legal authorization before entry. Familiarity with this section helps property managers respond appropriately when an inspection is requested.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 263-13 establishes that, outside of emergencies, inspections of rental premises under Chapter 263 require either owner consent or a court warrant — a protection rooted in constitutional principles. Tenants should be aware that this provision governs the Code Enforcement Official's authority, and that separate rights may apply to tenant-occupied spaces depending on the circumstances. Tenants who have questions about how inspection rules interact with their occupancy rights may wish to consult a local tenant-rights organization or review the full text of Chapter 263.
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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