Oyster Bay, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 135 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 135-19
Stairways; railings
Operative Text
A. Stairs, both interior and exterior, shall be of sufficient width in conformity with generally accepted standards so as to serve the occupants. B. Railings shall be provided on open portions of stairs, balconies, landings and stairwells.
Section 135-19 of Oyster Bay's Code of Ordinances establishes baseline safety standards for stairways and railings in residential properties. Stairs—whether inside or outside a building—must be wide enough to safely accommodate the people who use them, measured against generally accepted construction standards. Railings are required along any open sections of stairs, balconies, landings, and stairwells, providing fall protection in those areas.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 135-19, compliant property operators ensure that all interior and exterior stairways meet width standards consistent with generally accepted building practices for the number of occupants served. Operators also install and maintain railings along every open portion of stairs, balconies, landings, and stairwells throughout the property. Routine inspections of these features help confirm that stair widths remain unobstructed and that railings are structurally sound and properly positioned.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 135-19 gives occupants a basis to expect that stairs are adequately wide and that open stair edges, balconies, landings, and stairwells are equipped with railings. If a railing is missing, damaged, or a stairway appears dangerously narrow, tenants can document the condition and report it to the appropriate Oyster Bay code enforcement or building department. Tenant-rights organizations can help residents understand how to raise a § 135-19 violation, whether as a complaint or as a defense in other 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 9, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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