Clarkstown, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 157 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 157-23
Fireplaces
Operative Text
A. Fireplaces and similar construction used or intended to be used for burning fuel in open fires shall be connected to approved chimneys and shall be installed so that nearby or adjacent combustible material and structural members shall not be heated to unsafe temperatures. B. Hearths and linings or other parts of fireplaces exposed directly to flame shall be of materials that will not melt, disintegrate, spall or shatter at high temperatures. C. Wood mantels and trim on fireplaces shall be placed and attached so that they cannot be heated to unsafe temperatures or ignited by sparks or embers from the fire.
Section 157-23 of Clarkstown's Code of Ordinances establishes safety standards for fireplaces and similar open-burning fixtures in residential and other buildings. The rule requires that fireplaces connect to approved chimneys, that all flame-exposed components be made of heat-resistant materials that won't degrade under high temperatures, and that decorative wood elements like mantels and trim be positioned and secured so they cannot reach unsafe temperatures or catch sparks or embers. The provision covers the full assembly—from the chimney connection down to the hearth lining and surrounding woodwork—as an integrated fire-safety system.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers subject to Clarkstown, N.Y., Code ch. 157 § 157-23 generally ensure that any fireplace on the premises is connected to a code-approved chimney and that all flame-exposed components—hearths, linings, and similar parts—are constructed from materials rated to withstand high temperatures without melting, spalling, or disintegrating. Compliant operators also verify that wood mantels and trim are installed at appropriate clearances and fastened in a manner that prevents them from being heated to unsafe levels or ignited by sparks. Routine inspections and documentation of fireplace installations and materials are practices commonly associated with maintaining compliance under this section.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under Clarkstown, N.Y., Code ch. 157 § 157-23, tenants in units with fireplaces have an interest in knowing that the fireplace assembly—including its chimney connection, heat-resistant linings, and wood trim—meets the safety standards set out in this provision. If a fireplace appears to have deteriorating hearth materials, improperly positioned wood trim, or a questionable chimney connection, tenants may report concerns to the local building or code enforcement department in Clarkstown. Tenant-rights organizations and housing advocacy groups can also help residents understand what documentation or inspections they may be entitled to request under local housing codes.
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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