Highlights of the Westchester Consumer Code

Below are highlights of the Westchester Consumer Protection Code.  You may also access the full code.

• A merchant may not state that replacements or repairs are needed when they are not.
• A merchant may not use false and misleading advertising or make false or misleading representations of fact.
• A merchant must provide a clear and legible receipt, which includes the full name and address under which the merchant transacts business.
• A merchant must clearly stamp, tag or label the selling price on all consumer goods. In some cases, a sign displaying selling price at the display may be acceptable.
• A merchant may not obstruct or conceal the consumer's view of the cash register total or any retail weighing or measuring device.
• A merchant must prominently display the store's refund or exchange policy at the point of sale in any retail store.
• A merchant cannot charge a total selling price, excluding tax, which is more than 20 percent above the original written estimate, unless a revised estimate has been submitted to and accepted by the consumer.
• An expiration sale date must be displayed on a conspicuous area of all perishable products, except produce.
• Whenever merchandise is prepackaged on the premises, a "For Customers' Use" scale must be easily accessible.
• "TX" or "TAX" must be marked on all taxable products.
• There must be signs displaying the selling price at retail gas pumps.
• A towing operator, removing a vehicle from privately owned property, may not charge in excess of $65.00 for towing a vehicle less than one mile. A maximum of $1.50 may be charged for each additional mile. Not more than $5 a day can be charged for storage.
• For delivered goods, a contract may be cancelled, with full refund, if the merchant fails to disclose a delivery date in writing or if the goods are not delivered within 30 days of the date specified for delivery.