Rotterdam, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 265 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 265-3
Definitions
Operative Text
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated: BUILDING Any structure built for the support, shelter or enclosure of persons, animals, chattels or movable property of any kind and which is permanently affixed to the land. JUNK Discarded, broken or disabled material, including, but not limited to, furniture; appliances; toys; or other items that are not in functioning condition. LITTER Discarded waste materials, including, but not limited to, paper wrappings; packaging materials; discarded or used bottles; and discarded or used cans. MOTOR VEHICLE All vehicles propelled or drawn by power other than muscular power originally intended for use on public highways. OWNER Any person owning property, as shown on the real property records of Schenectady County or on the last assessment roll for taxes, and shall also mean any lessee, tenant or other person having control or possession of the property. PROPERTY A lot, plot or parcel of land, including any structures thereon. STRUCTURE A building or structure which is not currently inhabited or occupied and to which access to the interior thereof may be gained by reason of open, unlocked or broken windows or doors, or because of other physical deterioration or damage thereto. TRASH Waste food products and other household garbage. VERMIN Various small animals, such as rats, that may be destructive or injurious to health.
Rotterdam, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 265 § 265-3 establishes the official definitions that govern how key terms are interpreted throughout Chapter 265. Words like 'junk,' 'litter,' 'trash,' 'vermin,' 'motor vehicle,' 'building,' 'structure,' 'property,' and 'owner' each carry specific, bounded meanings under this chapter rather than their everyday colloquial senses. Notably, the definition of 'owner' extends beyond the titleholder of record to include lessees, tenants, and anyone else exercising control or possession of a property.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under Rotterdam, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 265 § 265-3 should be aware that their obligations under Chapter 265 apply to the defined terms as written, not as commonly understood. Because 'owner' explicitly includes anyone with control or possession of a property, landlords may share compliance responsibilities with tenants depending on the circumstances. Operators generally maintain familiarity with these definitions so that items such as non-functioning appliances, waste food products, or unsecured structures are correctly identified and addressed under the chapter's requirements.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under Rotterdam, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 265 § 265-3, tenants are expressly included within the definition of 'owner' as persons having control or possession of a property, which means Chapter 265's obligations can apply to them directly. This also means tenants may have standing to raise issues related to conditions covered by these definitions—such as vermin, litter, or accessible deteriorated structures—when those conditions affect their property. Tenants who believe conditions covered by these definitions are not being properly addressed may wish to consult local code enforcement authorities or a tenant-rights organization to understand 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 10, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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