Massena, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 186 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 186-24
Fireplaces
Operative Text
A. Fireplaces and similar construction used, or intended to be used, for burning fuel in open fires shall be connected to approved chimneys and shall be installed so that nearby or adjacent combustible materials and structural members shall not be heated to unsafe temperatures. B. Hearths and linings or other parts of fireplaces exposed directly to flame shall be of materials that will not melt, disintegrate, spall or shatter at high temperatures. C. Wood mantels and trim on fireplaces shall be placed and attached so that they cannot be heated to unsafe temperatures or ignited by sparks or embers from the fire.
Section 186-24 of Massena's Code of Ordinances establishes safety standards for fireplaces and similar open-fire burning structures. It requires that such units connect to approved chimneys, that their fire-exposed components be made of heat-resistant materials that won't degrade under high temperatures, and that any wood mantels or trim be positioned so they cannot reach unsafe temperatures or catch sparks or embers. The rule applies to both existing fireplaces in use and those intended for future use.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Massena Code § 186-24, compliant property operators ensure that any fireplace or open-fire burning unit is connected to a properly approved chimney and that all structural members near the unit are protected from unsafe heat transfer. Operators also verify that hearths, linings, and other flame-exposed components are constructed from materials rated to withstand high temperatures without melting, spalling, or disintegrating. Wood mantels and decorative trim are installed at distances and with attachments that prevent them from being heated to dangerous levels or ignited by stray sparks or embers.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 186-24 of the Massena Code gives tenants a basis to raise concerns if a fireplace in their rental unit appears to lack an approved chimney connection, uses heat-degradable materials in flame-exposed areas, or has wood mantels and trim positioned dangerously close to the fire opening. Tenants who observe these conditions may report them to the local code enforcement or building department for inspection. Tenant-rights organizations can also help residents understand what documentation to gather and what local complaint processes may be available.
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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