Jamestown, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 215 § 215-21
Prohibited accumulations and storage
Operative Text
It shall be prohibited: A. To accumulate or store on any premises, except in approved locations, any flammable or explosive matter, such as paints, volatile oils, cleaning fluids and similar materials, or any combustible refuse, such as wastepaper, boxes, rugs or similar materials. B. 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.
Section 215-21 of the Jamestown, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 215 prohibits two categories of dangerous storage in residential and other premises. First, flammable or explosive materials—such as paints, volatile oils, and cleaning fluids—as well as combustible refuse like wastepaper and boxes may not be accumulated or stored except in locations that have been specifically approved for that purpose. Second, no materials of any kind may be stored on fire escapes, stairs, stairways, passageways, doorways, windows, or any other spot where they could block occupants from exiting or hinder firefighting efforts during an emergency.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Operators of properties subject to Jamestown Code ch. 215 § 215-21 generally maintain clear, unobstructed egress routes at all times, ensuring that fire escapes, stairways, hallways, and doorways remain free of stored items. Compliant operators also designate and use only approved storage locations for flammable or explosive substances and combustible refuse, rather than allowing such materials to accumulate in common or unapproved areas. Routine property inspections that specifically check these areas for improper accumulation are a common practice among operators seeking to stay in compliance with § 215-21.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under Jamestown Code ch. 215 § 215-21, tenants have an interest in knowing that their building's fire escapes, stairways, and exit paths must be kept clear of stored materials, and that flammable or combustible items may only be kept in approved locations. If a tenant observes violations of § 215-21—such as boxes stacked in a stairwell or paint cans stored in a hallway—they may consider reporting the condition to the appropriate Jamestown municipal or code-enforcement authority. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with local housing codes can help explain what options are generally available when such conditions are identified.
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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