A plain-English breakdown of New York City exit sign requirements—how NYC differs from national code, what inspectors actually look for (legend size, color, housing, placement), and how to stay inspection-ready with testing and documentation. Use this to brief contractors, facility teams, and AHJs before submittals or walk-throughs.
Last updated: October 2025
Overview: How NYC differs from national code
NYC layers city-specific expectations on top of UL 924 and NFPA 101. In practice, that means stricter requirements for letter size, color, construction, mounting, and documentation. If you’re used to “standard” exit signs, plan on stricter specifications and closer scrutiny in NYC.
For broader code context (emergency lighting + signs), see NYC emergency lighting requirements.
Core specs inspectors check
- Legend size & color: NYC commonly expects 8" red letters with high contrast. Avoid stylized fonts or dim legends.
- Construction: Durable, often metal/architectural housings; trim sits flush; no flimsy plastics on higher-visibility projects.
- UL 924 listing + 90-minute runtime: Battery indicators and test access must function and be visible.
- Directional chevrons: Arrows must reflect the actual path (no tape-overs or backwards arrows).
- Docs on hand: Submittal cut sheets, listings, and maintenance logs available at inspection.
Placement & visibility
Provide signs at doors leading to exits, turns/decision points, and any location where sightlines break. Coordinate with interior finishes and lighting so the legend remains visible at normal approach distances.
- Above doors: Center where practical; add arrows if the route turns.
- Stair enclosures: Mark each entry; coordinate with stair ID signage.
- Wet/harsh spaces: Use sealed/gasketed gear. See the NYC wet-location exit sign guide.
- Architectural integrations: For clean ceilings and corridors, review recessed NYC exit signs & emergency lights.
Testing, self-diagnostics & logs
NYC still expects proof of monthly quick checks and an annual 90-minute test. Self-diagnostic (self-testing) models automate the cycle and clearly report failures—handy on large or hard-to-reach sites. For model considerations, see NYC self-testing exit signs.
If you need EXIT + lamp heads in one unit above doors, compare NYC combo options.
Common NYC mistakes & quick fixes
- Wrong legend color/size: NYC is typically 8" red—swap non-compliant units early.
- Plastic economy housings: Upgrade to metal/architectural where AHJs expect it.
- Incorrect chevrons: Order the right arrowing; don’t field-modify with tape.
- Broken sightlines: Add intermediate signs at corners and decision points.
- No logs: Keep a simple pass/fail log; self-diagnostics make this easier.
FAQs
Can I use green EXIT signs in NYC?
Red is the accepted standard citywide. Use green only if the project’s approvals explicitly allow it.
Are recessed or edge-lit signs acceptable?
Yes—if they meet NYC letter size, color, and listing requirements. Coordinate trim/mounting details in submittals.
Do self-testing exit signs replace manual testing?
No—they automate the required tests and make outcomes obvious. You still maintain a simple log and correct faults.
Next steps
Need models that pass NYC review? Start here: