Clarkstown, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 157 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 157-16
Exits
Operative Text
A. Safe, continuous and unobstructed exit shall be provided from the interior of the building to the exterior at street or grade level. B. Exits shall be arranged, constructed and proportioned so that occupants may escape safely from the building in case of emergency. C. In one- and two-family dwellings, in addition to a primary exit from the building, there shall be provided a secondary exit or, in lieu thereof, one or more exit openings for emergency use. D. In multiple dwellings, approved exits shall be provided.
Clarkstown, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 157 § 157-16 establishes that every residential building must have safe, clear, and uninterrupted pathways from the building's interior to the outside at street or ground level. Exits must be designed and sized so that occupants can escape in an emergency. One- and two-family homes must have both a primary exit and a secondary exit or emergency-use opening, while multi-family dwellings must have approved exits meeting applicable standards.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under ch. 157 § 157-16, compliant operators of one- and two-family homes maintain both a primary exit and at least one secondary exit or emergency opening that remains clear and functional at all times. Operators of multiple dwellings ensure that all exits carry the required approvals and are kept unobstructed, properly constructed, and proportioned for safe occupant egress. Routine inspections of exit pathways, hardware, and emergency openings are a standard part of property maintenance practice under this provision.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 157-16 of Clarkstown's Code of Ordinances gives occupants the right to safe, unobstructed exit routes from their homes, including secondary or emergency exits in one- and two-family dwellings. If an exit is blocked, in disrepair, or otherwise fails to meet these requirements, tenants may document the condition and report it to the local code enforcement or building department in Clarkstown. Tenant-rights organizations can also help residents understand how to raise an exit-safety violation and what remedies may be available.
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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