Pelham, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 54 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 54-65
Stormwater
Operative Text
A. Stormwater shall be properly drained to prevent recurrent or excessive ponding or the entrance of stormwater into the basement, cellar or ground level of the structure. B. The ground surrounding the structure shall, where practical, be graded away from the building and foundation. C. Conductors or drain pipes, where utilized, shall function properly. Stormwater sewers, dry wells or other satisfactory drainage systems shall be used where necessary. D. No stormwater shall be discharged onto public sidewalks.
Section 54-65 of Pelham's Code of Ordinances (Chapter 54) establishes standards for how stormwater must be managed around residential and other structures. The rule requires that water draining from roofs, yards, and surrounding ground be directed away from buildings and public sidewalks, preventing it from pooling excessively or seeping into basements and lower levels. Gutters, downspouts, dry wells, and grading are among the tools the code contemplates, and each must be kept in working order where they are in use.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under Pelham Code § 54-65, property operators are generally expected to maintain grading, gutters, downspouts, and any drainage infrastructure so that stormwater moves away from the building's foundation and does not collect in basements or cellars. Compliant operators routinely inspect conductors and drain pipes for blockages or damage and ensure that no runoff is directed onto public sidewalks. Where site conditions make proper grading impractical, alternative drainage solutions such as dry wells or approved stormwater sewer connections are typically employed to meet the standard.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 54-65 of Pelham's Code of Ordinances gives tenants a basis to raise concerns when stormwater repeatedly ponds near a building, enters a basement or cellar, or flows onto public sidewalks due to inadequate drainage. Tenants who observe these conditions may report them to the appropriate Pelham municipal code enforcement office, which has authority to inspect and require corrective action. Tenant-rights organizations and housing clinics can help residents understand how a documented drainage violation under § 54-65 might relate to habitability standards or other protections available under local and state law.
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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