Brooklyn since 2014All five boroughsSame-day response during business hours

What is NYC AC § 27-2027?

Quick Answer

This section mandates that the owner of a dwelling must grade and maintain drainage for roofs, terraces, and other open spaces to ensure proper storm water management. The statute outlines requirements for unobstructed drainage connections and allows for specific materials to be used in surfacing. Applies to owners of dwellings responsible for drainage maintenance.

General informational summary. Not legal advice for your situation. Consult an attorney before acting on any specific matter.

Michael Nacmias - Founding PartnerMichael Sargo - Partner
From the team atNacmias Law Firm, PLLCBrooklyn-based attorneys representingproperty owners across all five boroughsMeet the team →

§ 27-2027 Drainage of roofs and court yards.

AC § 27-2027

a. The owner of a dwelling shall grade and maintain the grading of all roofs, terraces, shafts, courts, yards, and other open spaces on the lot, and shall provide and maintain unobstructed drainage from these areas and spaces through a drain connected to a street storm-water main or combined sewer and street storm-water main. In the absence of a street storm-water main or combined sewer and street storm-water main, the department may permit the storm water from such areas to drain into a street gutter leading to a natural channel, water course, or dry well. b. The owner of a dwelling shall provide and maintain drainage from all roofs to carry off storm water, to prevent it from dripping to the ground, or from causing dampness in walls, ceilings, and open spaces. c. The department may require the owner of a dwelling to surface shafts, courts, yards, and other open spaces on the lot with concrete, and to pitch the surfaces of such areas towards a sewer-connected drain or other adequate drainage system, except that, with respect to private dwellings, the department may permit the surfacing of such areas with bituminous aggregate or other similar material. d. The owner of a dwelling may plant grass, sod, shrubs, trees and other vegetation in yards and courts, unless the department orders its removal because in its opinion such vegetation interferes with proper drainage, light, ventilation, or egress.

Common Questions

Our team

Meet the people you will work with

TI

Tiffany Irizarry

Legal Coordinator

OATH / DOB
TI

Tiffany Irizarry

Legal Coordinator

OATH / DOB

Free case review

Have a matter that touches § 27-2027?

Free 15-minute case review with the attorney handling your matter. Same-day response during business hours across all five boroughs — OATH hearings, Housing Court, and real estate closings.

Or email us

reception@nacmiaslaw.com

An attorney reads every message.

  • Same-day response

    During business hours

  • Direct attorney access

    Same lawyer from intake to close

  • Flat-fee pricing

    On most OATH and closing matters