Amherst, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 151 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 151-65
General light, ventilation and occupancy limitations
Operative Text
A. Scope. The provisions of §§ 151-65 through 151-68 shall govern the minimum conditions and standards for light, ventilation and space for occupying a structure. B. Responsibility. The owner of the structure shall provide and maintain light, ventilation and space conditions in compliance with these requirements. A person shall not occupy as owner-occupant, or permit another person to occupy, any premises that do not comply with the requirements of this section. C. Alternative devices. In lieu of the means for natural light and ventilation herein prescribed, artificial light or mechanical ventilation complying with the Building Code shall be permitted.
Section 151-65 of Amherst, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 151 establishes the baseline standards for light, ventilation, and space that must be present in any occupied structure. The rule places the duty to provide and maintain these conditions on the property owner, and it prohibits anyone—whether an owner living in the property or a landlord renting to others—from occupying or allowing occupancy of a space that falls short of these minimums. As an alternative to natural light and ventilation, the provision allows artificial lighting or mechanical ventilation systems, provided they meet the applicable Building Code requirements.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 151-65, property owners in Amherst bear direct responsibility for ensuring that every occupied unit meets the minimum light, ventilation, and space standards set out in §§ 151-65 through 151-68. Compliant operators generally conduct routine inspections to confirm that natural light and airflow meet code requirements, and where natural means are insufficient, they install artificial lighting or mechanical ventilation systems that satisfy the Amherst Building Code. Maintaining documentation of these systems and any upgrades is a practice commonly associated with ongoing compliance.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 151-65 of Amherst's housing code gives tenants a basis to raise concerns when a rental unit lacks adequate light, ventilation, or space, since the law places the maintenance obligation squarely on the property owner. Tenants who believe their unit falls below these minimums may consider documenting the conditions, notifying the owner in writing, or contacting the appropriate Amherst code enforcement office to request an inspection. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with Amherst, N.Y., housing law can help residents understand the range of options available under this provision.
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.
Effective Timeline
References In
Rules and statutes that cite this regulation