New Department of State Regulation: Chestnut Ridge Cease and Desist Zones in Effect

Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee (D-Suffern) this week announced that as of July 1, 2018, a new regulation went into effect to address aggressive real estate solicitation in the incorporated Village of Chestnut Ridge in Rockland County, NY. The regulation prohibits real estate brokers, real estate salespeople, and other persons regularly engaged in the buying and selling of real estate from soliciting a real estate listing from homeowners whose name appears on a Department of State issued cease and desist list. Registration for the list began July 1, 2018.

Jaffee said the cease and desist regulation is designed to protect homeowners who do not wish to receive real estate solicitations, including solicitation by telephone, mail, door-to-door communication, e-mail, text message or any other direct means.

 “I am pleased by the thorough review DOS conducted of concrete evidence collected and submitted by residents and its positive response to the numerous concerns they have raised,” Jaffee said. “The cease and desist zones will ensure that homeowners in Chestnut Ridge can enjoy their homes free from harassment.”

DOS held a public meeting on September 21, 2016 at Rockland Community College where residents expressed their concerns regarding excessive solicitation. Residents also provided DOS with numerous fliers and other materials to document the excessive solicitation. 

Only homes located in the Village of Chestnut Ridge are covered under the cease and desist order. A map of covered areas can be found on the Department of State’s website.  http://www.dos.ny.gov/licensing/ceaseanddesist

Homeowners may add their names to the cease and desist list by registering on the Department of State website. The first list will be published on September 1, 2018. The list will be updated on a monthly basis thereafter. The Department of State will begin enforcing the cease and desist list after October 1, 2018.

The Department of State may impose penalties for violations of the cease and desist regulations. Depending upon the severity of the offense, the penalty for sending an unlawful solicitation may range from a reprimand to a fine up to $1,000, to license suspension and license revocation. 

The regulation will expire on July 1, 2023.

Press Release from Ellen Jaffee

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