Elmira Town, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 171 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 171-2
Definitions
Operative Text
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning: AGENT A person or entity designated by the owner on the registry form who by such owner designation shall have the authority to make decisions regarding the management and maintenance of any and all dwelling units owned by the owner and located within the Town. BUILDING A structure containing one or more dwelling units rented or being offered for rental. CODE The state uniform fire prevention and building code, as amended. CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER The Code Enforcement Officer of the Town or his designee. DEPARTMENT The Town's Code Enforcement Department. DWELLING UNIT A single residential accommodation which is arranged, designed, used or, if vacant, intended for use exclusively as a domicile or residence of one or more persons. OWNER The owner or owners of the fee of the premises or lesser estate therein, a mortgagee or vendee in possession, assignee of rents, receiver, executor, trustee or agent. PERSON An individual or any entity which lawfully can be the fee owner of real property. PROBATIONARY CERTIFICATION As provided for in this chapter.
Section 171-2 of Elmira Town's Code of Ordinances Chapter 171 establishes the working definitions for all terms used throughout the town's rental housing registration and oversight framework. Key terms defined include 'dwelling unit,' 'owner,' 'agent,' 'building,' and 'probationary certification,' each carrying a specific legal meaning within this chapter. When any of these terms appear in Chapter 171, the definitions provided in § 171-2 govern their interpretation unless the surrounding context clearly calls for a different reading.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating rental housing in Elmira Town should familiarize themselves with the definitions set out in § 171-2, as these terms shape obligations throughout Chapter 171. Notably, an 'agent' designated on the registry form takes on formal authority over management and maintenance decisions, meaning the person listed carries real responsibility under the code. Compliant operators typically ensure that their registry filings accurately reflect who holds that agent designation, since the definition ties authority directly to that designation.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Tenants renting in Elmira Town benefit from understanding the definitions in § 171-2, because these terms determine who qualifies as an 'owner' or 'agent' with responsibility for a dwelling unit's management and maintenance. The broad definition of 'owner' in this section—which can include mortgagees, receivers, trustees, and agents—means that more than one party may bear responsibility for conditions in a rental unit. Tenants who have concerns about their housing conditions or registration status can consult local tenant-rights organizations or the Town's Code Enforcement Department for guidance on how Chapter 171 applies to their situation.
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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