Thomaston, N.Y., Code of Ordinances ch. 144 (eCode360 ed. 2026) § 144-11
Open areas
Operative Text
A. Surface or subsurface water shall be appropriately drained to protect buildings and structures and to prevent the development of stagnant ponds. Gutters, culverts, catch basins, drain inlets, stormwater sewers or other satisfactory drainage systems shall be utilized where necessary. No roof, surface or sanitary drainage shall create a structural, safety or health hazard by reason of construction, maintenance or manner of discharge. B. Fences and other minor construction shall be maintained in a safe and substantial condition. C. Steps, walks, driveways, parking spaces and similar paved areas shall be maintained so as to afford safe passage under normal use and weather conditions. Any holes or other hazards that may exist shall be filled and necessary repairs or replacement carried out. D. Yards and vacant lots shall be kept clean and free of physical hazards, rodent harborage and infestation. They shall be maintained in a manner that will prevent dust or other particles from being blown about the neighborhood. Open wells, cesspools or cisterns shall be securely closed or barricaded from access by the public. E. Heavy undergrowth and accumulation of plant growth which are noxious or detrimental to health shall be eliminated.
Section 144-11 of Thomaston's Code of Ordinances establishes standards for the maintenance of open areas on properties, including drainage systems, fences, paved surfaces, yards, and vegetation. The rule requires that water be properly directed away from buildings, that walkways and driveways remain safe for normal use, and that yards be kept free of hazards, pests, and harmful plant growth. Open wells, cesspools, and cisterns must be securely closed or barricaded to prevent public access.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under § 144-11, compliant property operators generally keep drainage infrastructure—such as gutters, culverts, and catch basins—clear and functional to prevent water from pooling near structures. They routinely inspect paved areas like steps, driveways, and parking spaces for holes or deterioration and make timely repairs, while also maintaining fences in structurally sound condition. Yards and vacant lots are kept free of rodent harborage, noxious vegetation, and physical hazards, and any open wells or cisterns on the property are securely closed or barricaded.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 144-11 establishes baseline conditions that open areas of a property must meet, including safe walkways, proper drainage, and pest-free yards—conditions that may affect habitability and safety. Tenants who observe violations such as standing water near a building, deteriorated walkways, or evidence of rodent infestation may have grounds to raise these conditions with local code enforcement authorities in Thomaston. Tenant-rights organizations can help residents understand what documentation to gather and what general options exist when open-area maintenance standards under ch. 144 are not being met.
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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