Thomaston, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 116 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 116-20
Storm drainage
Operative Text
A. Roofs and paved areas, including yards and courts, shall be drained into dry wells provided on-site. Storm drainage shall be conveyed to an adequate and approved dry well system of stormwater disposal. No storm drainage shall be discharged in such manner as to permit water to flow onto sidewalks. However, the provisions of this section shall not prohibit the continuation of any previously existing system of stormwater disposal, except where the Superintendent of Public Works determines that such previously existing system is dangerous to public health, safety or welfare. Any such determination by the Superintendent of Public Works may be appealed to the Board of Trustees. B. Where a drainage system may be subject to backwater, suitable provision shall be made to prevent its overflow into the building. C. Leaders and gutters, if used, shall be constructed of noncombustible material, except that wood leaders and gutters may be used for buildings not more than three stories high.
Thomaston, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 116 § 116-20 establishes rules for how stormwater must be managed on residential and other properties. Roofs and paved surfaces must drain into on-site dry wells, and water may not be directed onto public sidewalks. Existing stormwater systems may generally remain in place unless the Superintendent of Public Works finds them hazardous to public health, safety, or welfare, with any such finding subject to appeal before the Board of Trustees. Where backwater risk exists, systems must include overflow protection, and gutters and leaders must be made of noncombustible materials unless the building is three stories or fewer.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under ch. 116 § 116-20 generally ensure that all roof and paved-surface drainage is directed into an approved on-site dry well system rather than onto sidewalks or into unapproved outlets. Compliant operators inspect drainage systems for backwater vulnerability and install appropriate safeguards to prevent water from entering the building. When installing or replacing leaders and gutters, operators typically use noncombustible materials, reserving wood components only for buildings of three stories or fewer as the provision allows.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under ch. 116 § 116-20, tenants have an interest in knowing that their building's stormwater drainage must be properly managed so that water does not flow onto sidewalks or back up into the structure. If a drainage system appears to be causing unsafe conditions—such as water intrusion or sidewalk flooding—tenants may raise the issue with the Superintendent of Public Works, who has authority to evaluate whether an existing system poses a danger to public health, safety, or welfare. Tenants who believe a determination by the Superintendent is incorrect may note that the provision allows appeals to the Board of Trustees, and consulting a tenant-rights organization can help clarify 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 9, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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