East Hampton, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 141 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 141-21
Definitions
Operative Text
A. Definitions. As used in this article, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated: SMOKE DETECTOR Any photoelectric or ionization type single-station smoke detecting device listed by Underwriters Laboratories, Factory Mutual Testing Laboratories or other testing agency acceptable to the Town of East Hampton, in which the control, detection and audible alarm functions are contained in one unit which sounds the audible alarm upon detection of smoke or invisible particles of combustion related to fire. No device which is or has become incapable of operation, either because of weakened or dead batteries, or because of any other mechanical or electrical defect or failure, shall be deemed to constitute a "smoke detector" for the purposes hereof. B. Other terms. Definition of other terms used in this article shall conform to usage in the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code.
Section 141-21 of East Hampton's Code of Ordinances establishes what qualifies as a 'smoke detector' for purposes of the article governing smoke detection requirements. A qualifying device must be a photoelectric or ionization type single-station unit listed by an approved testing agency, with control, detection, and audible alarm functions integrated into one unit. Critically, any device that has become non-functional due to dead or weak batteries or any mechanical or electrical failure does not count as a smoke detector under this provision. Other terms used in the article follow the definitions set out in the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 141-21, property owners and managers in East Hampton must ensure that any smoke detector installed to satisfy the article's requirements meets the specific definition laid out in the code — a listed, single-station photoelectric or ionization device with integrated alarm functions. A compliant operator regularly checks that installed devices are fully operational, since a unit with dead or weakened batteries or any mechanical defect is explicitly excluded from the definition of a 'smoke detector' under this provision. Operators generally maintain records of inspections and battery replacements to demonstrate ongoing compliance with § 141-21's standards.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 141-21 defines what counts as a legally compliant smoke detector in East Hampton rental properties, and a device that is non-functional due to dead batteries or mechanical failure does not meet that definition. Tenants who find that a smoke detector in their unit is inoperable or otherwise deficient may have grounds to raise a concern under ch. 141 § 141-21 with local housing or fire safety authorities in East Hampton. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with New York housing law can help renters understand how this definitional provision connects to broader habitability and safety obligations.
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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