Mount Vernon, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 149 § 149-36
Open areas
Operative Text
A. Surface and subsurface water shall be appropriately drained to protect buildings and structures and to prevent development of stagnant ponds. Gutters, culverts, catch basins, drain inlets, stormwater sewers, approved combined storm and sanitary sewers or other satisfactory drainage systems shall be utilized where deemed necessary. B. Fences and other minor constructions shall be maintained in safe and substantial condition. C. Steps, walks, driveways, parking spaces and similar paved areas shall be maintained so as to afford safe passage under normal use and weather conditions. D. Yards and courts shall be kept clean and free of physical hazards. E. Heavy undergrowths and accumulations of plant growth which are noxious or detrimental to health shall be eliminated.
Section 149-36 of the Mount Vernon Code of Ordinances establishes standards for the maintenance of open areas on residential and other properties. It requires that drainage systems be adequate to prevent standing water, that fences and minor structures remain structurally sound, and that paved surfaces like steps and driveways be kept safe for normal use. Yards and courts must be free of physical hazards, and overgrown or health-threatening vegetation must be removed.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Mount Vernon Code ch. 149 § 149-36, compliant property operators routinely inspect gutters, culverts, and other drainage components to ensure water does not pool or threaten building foundations. They also keep fences, walkways, driveways, and parking areas in good repair so that these surfaces remain safe under typical weather conditions. Regular yard maintenance—including clearing debris, physical hazards, and heavy or noxious plant growth—is part of standard open-area upkeep expected under this provision.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 149-36 of the Mount Vernon Code gives tenants a basis to raise concerns when open areas of a property—such as yards, walkways, driveways, or drainage systems—are not maintained in a safe and hazard-free condition. If steps are broken, drainage is failing, fences are unsafe, or overgrown vegetation poses a health risk, these conditions may constitute violations of this provision. Tenants can document such conditions and report them to the appropriate Mount Vernon code enforcement office, or consult a local 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.
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