No, incestuous relationships—including dating between siblings—are criminalized under New York Penal Law § 255.25, classifying them as a Class E felony. The statute prohibits sexual conduct between individuals with a prohibited degree of relationship, irrespective of consent. While enforcement is rare, violations trigger severe penalties, including imprisonment and mandatory registration under the Sex Offender Registry Act. Local courts defer to state law, and no municipal ordinances supersede these provisions.
Key Regulations for Dating Siblings in New York
- Prohibited Degrees of Relationship: New York Penal Law § 255.25 criminalizes sexual relations between siblings, half-siblings, and parents/children, regardless of age or consent. The statute extends to adoptive relationships under Family Court Act § 114.
- Enforcement Priorities: The New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) monitors familial abuse cases, while local district attorneys pursue charges under “incest” provisions when evidence of sexual conduct exists. No 2026 statutory amendments are pending to decriminalize these acts.
- Collateral Consequences: Convictions under § 255.25 mandate Sex Offender Registration (Correction Law § 168), restricting housing, employment, and public access. Federal immigration laws may also trigger deportation proceedings for non-citizens convicted of such offenses.