Watervliet, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 176 § 176-4
Definitions
Operative Text
Whenever used in the chapter, unless otherwise expressly stated or unless the context or subject material requires a different meaning, the definitions as contained in the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code shall apply to the terms and previsions herein. DWELLING UNIT Any single unit providing complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. Dwelling units include, but are not limited to, one-family dwellings, each unit in a two-family dwelling, and each unit in a multiple dwelling. OWNER A person, agent, operator, firm, association, organization, partnership, company, corporation, beneficiary, trust, trustee, and all other persons having a legal or equitable interest in the property; recorded in the official records of the state, county or municipality as holding title to the property; or otherwise having control of the property, including the guardian of the estate of any such person, and the executor or administrator of the estate of such person if ordered to take possession of real property by a court.
Section 176-4 of Watervliet's Code of Ordinances Chapter 176 establishes the foundational definitions that govern how terms are interpreted throughout the chapter. A 'dwelling unit' is defined broadly as any self-contained living space with facilities for sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation — covering single-family homes, units in two-family homes, and units in multi-family buildings. 'Owner' is defined expansively to include not just titleholders but also agents, trustees, guardians, executors, and any other party with a legal or equitable interest in or control over the property. Where a term is not defined here, the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code definitions apply.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 176-4, the definition of 'owner' is intentionally broad, encompassing agents, operators, corporations, trustees, and others with legal or equitable control over a property — meaning that property managers and agents acting on behalf of a titleholder may fall within the chapter's obligations just as a direct owner would. Compliant operators generally ensure that anyone exercising control over a dwelling unit understands their potential responsibilities under Chapter 176. Keeping clear records of ownership structure and management authority is a practice commonly associated with maintaining compliance under provisions like § 176-4.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 176-4 defines both 'dwelling unit' and 'owner' in ways that are relevant to tenants, particularly because the broad definition of 'owner' means that a property manager, agent, or corporate entity — not just the person listed on a deed — may be accountable under Chapter 176. Tenants whose living space qualifies as a 'dwelling unit' under § 176-4 may be covered by the protections and requirements set out elsewhere in the chapter. Tenants seeking to understand how these definitions apply to their situation can consult local tenant-rights organizations or review the full text of Watervliet's Code of Ordinances.
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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