Mount Vernon, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 149 § 149-15
Light and ventilation
Operative Text
Every habitable room shall have one or more windows opening directly on a street or on a yard or court conforming to the requirements of this chapter and shall be provided with artificial light and natural ventilation or with mechanical ventilation in addition to natural ventilation.
Under Mount Vernon, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 149 § 149-15, every room used for living purposes must have at least one window that opens directly to a street, yard, or court meeting the chapter's standards. Each such room must also be supplied with artificial lighting and either natural ventilation or mechanical ventilation supplementing natural airflow. The rule establishes minimum conditions for light and air in all habitable spaces within the jurisdiction.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Operators of residential properties in Mount Vernon should ensure that every habitable room complies with ch. 149 § 149-15 by confirming that at least one window in each room opens directly onto a qualifying street, yard, or court. Compliant properties are also equipped with functional artificial lighting and adequate ventilation systems—whether natural, mechanical, or both—in every living space. Routine inspections of windows, lighting fixtures, and ventilation equipment help demonstrate ongoing compliance with this standard.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 149-15 of Mount Vernon's housing code gives occupants of habitable rooms the right to windows that open to the outside and to both artificial light and proper ventilation. If a room lacks a qualifying window, sufficient lighting, or adequate airflow, that condition may constitute a code violation that can be reported to the appropriate local housing or building enforcement office. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with Mount Vernon's ordinances can help residents understand the general options available when these standards are not met.
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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