Patchogue, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 238 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 238-27
Exit and directional signs
Operative Text
A. Exits in multiple dwellings shall be provided with exit and directional signs visible from the approach to the exits, except that such signs shall not be required in those portions of a building which contain dwelling units only, or in which exits from sleeping rooms are directly to the outside. B. Directional signs shall be provided at locations from which the exit doorway is not readily discernible. C. Signs shall be worded in plainly legible block letters with the word "EXIT" for exit signs and the words "TO EXIT," with a suitable pointer or arrow indicating the direction of the exit, for directional signs. Letters for signs shall be conspicuous, readily discernible and at least six inches high, except that for internally illuminated signs the height of such letters shall be at least 4 1/2 inches. D. Exit and directional signs shall be illuminated either externally or internally by electric lights, and shall be kept illuminated at all times when the building is occupied. E. Emergency lighting shall be provided in hallways and stairways of buildings over two stories in height.
Patchogue, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 238 § 238-27 requires that multiple dwellings be equipped with clearly marked, continuously illuminated exit and directional signs wherever exits may not be immediately obvious to occupants. Signs must use large block letters of at least six inches (or 4½ inches for internally lit signs), and directional signs must include a pointer or arrow indicating the way out. Buildings taller than two stories must also have emergency lighting in hallways and stairways. These requirements do not apply to areas containing only dwelling units or where sleeping rooms exit directly to the outside.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Operators of multiple dwellings subject to ch. 238 § 238-27 generally maintain exit and directional signs in all required common areas, ensuring letters meet the minimum height standards and that signs remain illuminated at all times the building is occupied. Compliant operators also verify that directional signs with arrows or pointers are posted wherever an exit door is not immediately visible from the approach path. For buildings exceeding two stories, property managers typically ensure that hallways and stairways have functioning emergency lighting systems that are regularly inspected and maintained.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under Patchogue, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 238 § 238-27, residents of multiple dwellings have an interest in properly marked and lit exit routes as a basic safety requirement. If exit signs are missing, unlit, or otherwise non-compliant, tenants may report the condition to the local code enforcement or building department, which has authority to inspect and require corrections. Tenant-rights organizations can also help residents understand how habitability and safety code violations may be raised in the context of housing complaints or other 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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