N.Y. Multiple Dwelling Law § 29

§ 29. Painting of courts and shafts. The exterior surface of all walls\nof all courts and shafts of multiple dwellings, except of outer courts\nopening on a street, and courts having dimensions of at least fifty\npercent in excess of the minimum set forth in section twenty-six, shall\nbe of a lightcolored brick or stone, or be thoroughly whitewashed or\npainted a light color by the owner and be so maintained. Such whitewash\nor paint shall be renewed whenever necessary, as may be determined and\nrequired by the department.\n