Brewster, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 186 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 186-3
Definitions
Operative Text
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated: CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER Building Inspector, municipally employed or appointed Code Enforcement Officer, police officer, Zoning Enforcement Officer, Sheriff or Fire Inspector of the Village of Brewster or other persons so appointed by the Village of Brewster Board of Trustees. DWELLING UNIT A structure or building, or part thereof, or an area, room or rooms therein, occupied or to be occupied by one or more persons as a home or residence. IMMEDIATE FAMILY The immediate family of the owner of a dwelling unit consists of the owner's spouse and their children, parents, grandparents or grandchildren. OWNER A person or entity having legal title to a dwelling unit or units. RENT A return, in money, property or other valuable consideration (including payment in kind or for services or other thing of value), for use and occupancy or the right to use and occupancy of a dwelling unit, whether or not a legal relationship of landlord and tenant exists between the owner and the occupant or occupants thereof. RENTAL DWELLING A dwelling unit established, occupied, used or maintained for rental occupancy. RENTAL OCCUPANCY The occupancy or use of a dwelling unit by one or more persons as a home or residence under an arrangement whereby the occupant or occupants thereof pay rent for such occupancy and use.
Section 186-3 of Brewster, N.Y., Code of Ordinances Chapter 186 establishes the foundational definitions that govern the entire chapter's rental regulations. Key terms such as 'dwelling unit,' 'owner,' 'rent,' 'rental dwelling,' and 'rental occupancy' are given specific meanings that apply throughout the chapter, regardless of whether a formal landlord-tenant legal relationship exists. The definition of 'rent' is notably broad, encompassing payment in money, property, services, or other valuable consideration for the right to occupy a dwelling.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating in Brewster should familiarize themselves with the defined terms in § 186-3, as these definitions shape how all other provisions of Chapter 186 apply to their properties. The broad definition of 'rent' means that arrangements involving payment in services or goods — not just cash — may still constitute rental occupancy under the chapter. Compliant operators generally ensure that any dwelling unit offered for occupancy under any compensatory arrangement is treated as a rental dwelling subject to the chapter's requirements.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Tenants in Brewster benefit from understanding that § 186-3 defines 'rental occupancy' and 'rent' broadly, meaning that a variety of living arrangements — even those without a traditional written lease — may still fall within the protections and obligations of Chapter 186. The definition of 'immediate family' in this section is also relevant in contexts where an owner claims occupancy rights based on family relationships. Tenants who have questions about whether their arrangement qualifies under these definitions may wish to consult a tenant-rights organization or review the full text of Chapter 186.
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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