Ithaca, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 210 § 210-39
Domestic animals and pets
Operative Text
Domestic animals and pets shall be kept in an appropriate manner and shall not be permitted to run at large.
Section 210-39 of Ithaca's Code of Ordinances establishes that domestic animals and pets must be kept in a manner appropriate to their species and circumstances, and they may not be allowed to roam freely without restraint or supervision. The rule applies broadly to anyone who keeps animals on residential property within the city. It sets a baseline standard of animal control tied to housing conditions.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under ch. 210 § 210-39, compliant property operators generally ensure that lease agreements address pet-keeping standards and that tenants understand animals must be properly contained and not allowed to run at large. Landlords managing multi-unit properties often include pet policies that align with this provision, covering appropriate housing of animals on the premises. Documenting any observed violations and communicating expectations to tenants in writing are practices consistent with maintaining compliance.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 210-39 gives the city a basis to address situations where animals are kept inappropriately or are allowed to roam freely, which can affect housing conditions for all residents in a building or neighborhood. Tenants who keep pets are generally expected to ensure those animals are properly housed and restrained at all times while living under this ordinance. Tenants who believe a neighbor's animals are creating a housing or safety concern may consider contacting local code enforcement or a tenant-rights organization to understand available options.
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.
Effective Timeline
References Out
No outbound references recorded yet for this provision.
References In
No inbound references recorded yet for this provision.