Canton Village, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 156 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 156-2
Definitions
Operative Text
As used herein, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated: DISCRIMINATORY HOUSING PRACTICE An act that is unlawful under this chapter. DWELLING Any building, structure or portion thereof which is occupied as, or designed or intended for occupancy as, a residence by one or more families and any vacant land which is offered for sale or lease for the construction or location thereon of any such building, structure or portion thereof. FAMILY Includes a single individual. PERSON Includes one or more individuals, corporations, partnerships, associations, labor organizations, legal representatives, mutual companies, joint-stock companies, trusts, unincorporated organizations, trustees, trustees in bankruptcy, receivers, and fiduciaries. TO RENT Includes to lease, to sublease, to let and otherwise to grant for a consideration the right to occupy premises not owned by the occupant.
Section 156-2 of Canton Village's Code of Ordinances establishes the foundational definitions that govern the rest of Chapter 156, the village's fair housing law. Key terms such as "dwelling," "family," "person," and "to rent" are given broad meanings — for example, a single individual qualifies as a "family," and "to rent" covers leasing, subleasing, and other arrangements granting occupancy rights for consideration. These definitions set the scope of who and what is protected or regulated throughout the chapter.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 156-2, the definitions that apply to Chapter 156 are intentionally broad, meaning a wide range of property types and transaction structures fall within the chapter's reach. Compliant operators generally recognize that any building or structure used or intended as a residence — as well as vacant land offered for residential development — qualifies as a "dwelling" subject to the chapter's requirements. Arrangements beyond traditional leases, such as subleases or other occupancy-for-consideration agreements, are also covered under the definition of "to rent."
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 156-2 defines the terms used throughout Canton Village's fair housing chapter in ways that tend to expand coverage rather than narrow it. Because "family" includes a single individual and "person" encompasses a wide range of legal entities, a broad set of people and organizations can be held accountable under Chapter 156. Tenants who believe a housing practice may be unlawful under this chapter may find it useful to consult a tenant-rights organization or legal aid provider familiar with local fair housing law.
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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