Oswego, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 149 § 149-21
Prevention of the spread of fire
Operative Text
A. Walls and ceilings shall be maintained free from cracks and openings which would permit flames or excessive heat to enter the concealed space. B. In buildings of mixed occupancy, nonresidential space shall be separated from residential space by approved fire separations which will retard the spread of fire. C. Garages in or attached to a residential building shall be separated from other spaces in the building by approved fire separations which will retard the spread of fire and prevent flammable or toxic vapors originating within the garage from being transmitted to other parts of the building.
Section 149-21 of Oswego's Code of Ordinances establishes structural fire-safety standards for residential buildings. Walls and ceilings must be kept free of cracks or openings that could allow flames or excessive heat to reach concealed spaces. In buildings that mix residential and nonresidential uses, the two areas must be separated by approved fire barriers, and any garage that is part of or attached to a residential building must similarly be separated to block both fire spread and the migration of flammable or toxic vapors.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under ch. 149 § 149-21, compliant property operators routinely inspect walls and ceilings for cracks or gaps and arrange for timely repairs to maintain intact fire-resistant surfaces. In mixed-use buildings, operators ensure that code-approved fire separations are in place between residential and nonresidential areas. Where a garage is attached to or built within a residential structure, operators verify that approved fire separations are installed and maintained to prevent both fire and hazardous vapors from reaching living spaces.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 149-21 gives residents of Oswego buildings a right to live in a structure where walls, ceilings, and shared boundaries with nonresidential spaces or garages are maintained to resist fire spread. If a tenant observes cracks, gaps, or missing fire barriers that may violate this provision, they may report the condition to the City of Oswego's code enforcement office, which has authority to inspect and require corrections. Tenants may also consult a local tenant-rights organization to understand how a documented violation under ch. 149 § 149-21 could be raised in relevant housing proceedings.
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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