Cohoes, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 215 § 215-21
Prohibited accumulations and storage
Operative Text
A. It shall be prohibited to accumulate or store on residential premises, except in approved locations, any highly flammable or explosive matter, such as paints, volatile oils, cleaning fluids and similar materials, or any combustible refuse liable to spontaneous combustion, such as wastepaper, boxes, rags or similar materials. B. It shall be prohibited to accumulate or store materials on fire escapes or stairs, in stairways or passageways, at doors or windows or in any other locations where, in the event of fire, such materials may obstruct egress of occupants or interfere with fire-fighting operations.
Cohoes, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 215 § 215-21 prohibits the storage of highly flammable or explosive materials — such as paints, volatile oils, and cleaning fluids — on residential premises except in designated approved locations. It also bars the accumulation of combustible refuse, like wastepaper, rags, or boxes, that could ignite on its own. Separately, no materials of any kind may be stored on fire escapes, in stairways, passageways, or near doors and windows if their presence could block occupants from exiting or hinder firefighting efforts during an emergency.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Operators of residential properties subject to ch. 215 § 215-21 generally designate and maintain approved storage areas for flammable or explosive substances and ensure those areas are clearly communicated to occupants. Compliant property managers conduct routine inspections to confirm that fire escapes, stairways, passageways, and exit points remain clear of stored materials at all times. Lease terms and building rules that address proper storage of combustible materials help reinforce compliance with this provision across all units.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under ch. 215 § 215-21, tenants have an interest in knowing that their building's common areas — including fire escapes, stairways, and passageways — must be kept free of stored materials that could block escape routes or impede firefighting. If a tenant observes violations, such as flammable materials stored improperly or exits obstructed by accumulated items, they may report the condition to the local code enforcement or building department in Cohoes. Tenant-rights organizations can help residents understand what options are generally available when a building appears to fall short of these safety standards.
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 7, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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