Fair Haven, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 59 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 59-2
Word usage
Operative Text
For the purpose of this chapter, certain words or phrases herein shall be interpreted as follows, except where the context clearly indicated the contrary: words used in the singular include the plural; words used in the present tense include the future tense; the word "person" includes a corporation as well as an individual; and the word "shall" is always mandatory.
Section 59-2 of Fair Haven, N.Y., Code of Ordinances Chapter 59 establishes how key terms and grammatical forms are to be read throughout the chapter. Singular words cover plural situations, present-tense language extends to future actions, the term 'person' encompasses both individuals and corporations, and the word 'shall' signals a mandatory obligation rather than a suggestion. These interpretive rules apply unless the surrounding context clearly points to a different meaning.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under Chapter 59 should be aware that Section 59-2 shapes how every requirement in the chapter is read. Because 'shall' is always mandatory under this provision, any directive phrased that way carries a firm compliance obligation—not a discretionary one. Operators who manage properties through a corporate entity should also note that the definition of 'person' in Section 59-2 explicitly includes corporations, meaning the chapter's obligations apply to them as fully as to individual landlords.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 59-2 of Chapter 59 establishes the interpretive framework that governs the entire chapter, which can affect how tenant protections and landlord obligations are understood. Because the provision makes 'shall' always mandatory, tenants may find it relevant when evaluating whether a landlord has met a firm duty imposed elsewhere in the chapter. Tenants who believe a provision has not been followed may wish to consult a local tenant-rights organization or municipal office to understand what options are generally available under Fair Haven's code.
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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