This guide breaks down New York City’s exit sign requirements—how they differ from national codes, what to look for in compliant signs, and how to implement them to avoid violations. It’s written in plain English for NYC property owners, facility managers, and safety professionals.
Last updated: August 2025
Quick Picks
NYC vs National: Key Differences
- Bigger Letters: NYC exit signs use 8-inch red “EXIT” letters with 1-inch strokes (standard elsewhere is 6-inch).
- Metal Housings Only: Plastic exit sign frames are not accepted—NYC requires steel or aluminum construction.
- Higher Brightness: Internally lit NYC signs must be extra bright. Emergency lighting paths target 2 fc average illumination.
- No Green Signs: NYC mandates red lettering on a white/aluminum background; green/black schemes are not compliant.
Compliance Snapshot
- UL 924 Listed: Use only UL 924 certified models with 90-minute emergency operation.
- Placement: Mark every exit door, stair, and hallway turn; add directional arrows where the exit is not in direct view.
- Photoluminescent: Maintain ~5 fc of charging light and ensure glow duration for extended outages in high-rises.
- No Tritium: Tritium exit signs are not allowed under NYC codes.
Fast Tips
- Renovations: Replace any green/plastic/6″ signs with NYC-approved 8″ red letter metal units.
- High-Rises: Install required photoluminescent exit signs - stair/path markings (Local Law 26) and verify charging light.
- Avoid Violations: Keep written records of monthly and annual exit light tests.
- Combos Save Space: NYC-rated exit + lights combo units simplify installs at doorways and corridors.
Introduction
Unlike most U.S. cities that follow the National Electric Code (NEC), New York City enforces its own set of stricter exit sign regulations through the NYC Building Code. These enhanced requirements often render standard exit signs non-compliant in NYC, so it’s critical to select models specifically approved by the city.
Design Requirements for NYC Exit Signs
NYC-approved exit signs must meet these key design requirements:
- Letter Color: Red letters only—green, black, and white are not permitted.
- Letter Size: 8-inch tall characters with 1-inch stroke width (vs. 6-inch/¾″ NEC standard).
- Internal Illumination: Must use red LED lighting, not white.
- Light Intensity: High-visibility lettering; emergency lighting paths target 2 fc average.
- Background Color: Must be white, translucent, or aluminum. Black, green, or red backgrounds are not acceptable.
- Photoluminescent Signs: Must remain visible for extended outages after light exposure.
- Self-Luminous (tritium) signs: Not allowed in NYC.
Installation Requirements for NYC Exit Signs
NYC exit sign placement guidelines include:
- Install illuminated signs at all exits, stairs, and corridor decision points.
- Photoluminescent signs and path markings should be mounted low in stairwells where smoke may obscure higher signs.
- Signs must be visible from any approach; add directional chevrons where the exit is not in direct view.
- Use periodic spacing along long corridors so occupants are always within sight of an EXIT indicator.
Types of NYC-Approved Exit Signs
- Steel Exit Signs: The most cost-effective option, designed for durability and compliance.
- Edge-Lit Exit Signs: Ideal for upscale applications—available in surface or recessed mount styles.
- Die-Cast Aluminum Exit Signs: Aesthetic and robust, perfect for modern commercial interiors.
Regulatory Compliance Beyond NYC
NYC’s requirements add to—not replace—national rules from OSHA, NFPA 101, and UL 924. For example, a 90-minute backup power source is mandatory for illuminated signs, and building owners must perform and document monthly and annual testing. Choosing NYC-approved models helps ensure code compliance, protects occupants, and avoids costly violations during inspections.
Comparisons
NYC vs National Code: Why Standard Signs Fail in NYC
Many off-the-shelf exit signs that meet national standards still fail NYC inspections. Common reasons: 6″ letters instead of 8″ red letters, plastic housings instead of metal, green lettering, and insufficient emergency illumination. Always confirm NYC-specific features before purchase.
Photoluminescent vs Electrical vs Tritium (NYC Perspective)
| Type | Description | NYC Stance | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photoluminescent | Charges from ambient light; glows during outages. | Allowed (UL 924); needs ~5 fc charging light. | Clean face; ensure area lights remain on. |
| Electric (LED + Battery) | Hard-wired AC with integrated battery for 90-minute operation. | Standard NYC solution. | Monthly & annual tests; replace batteries over time. |
| Self-Luminous (Tritium) | Radioactive gas tubes glow constantly for 10–20 years. | Not permitted in NYC. | Prohibited; plan removal if encountered. |
Steel vs Thermoplastic Housings
NYC requires steel or aluminum housings for durability and fire resistance. Thermoplastic (plastic) enclosures common elsewhere are not acceptable in NYC. Look for powder-coated steel or die-cast aluminum frames with tamper-resistant hardware.
Combo Units vs Separate Exit Sign & Lights
Combo units integrate an exit sign with emergency floodlights—ideal at doorways and stair entries. Pros: fewer fixtures, one power feed, and simplified maintenance. Watch-outs: larger footprint and shared failure impact. Both combos and separate devices can meet NYC code when properly specified and placed.
Code & Compliance
NYC and National Codes (UL 924, NFPA 101, OSHA)
NYC overlays stricter local specs on top of national rules. Every illuminated sign must be UL 924 listed with a 90-minute backup source. NFPA 101/OSHA require exit routes to be illuminated at all times and during power failure. NYC also targets a brighter egress path (commonly 2 fc average), so choose higher-output emergency lighting where needed.
Local Law 26: Photoluminescent Markings in High-Rises
- Scope: Stair doors, handrails, landings, edges, and low-level “EXIT” indicators in high-rise occupancies.
- Duration: Glow visible for extended outages; keep charging lights on during occupancy (~5 fc on faces).
- Spec: Use UL listed photoluminescent materials and follow placement details on your plans.
Tritium Exit Signs in NYC (Banned)
Self-luminous tritium signs are not permitted. If legacy units are discovered, replace them with NYC-approved electric or photoluminescent models and recycle tritium through licensed handlers.
Plan Reviews & Inspections: Common NYC Issues
- Show UL 924: Include cut sheets with UL listing and performance.
- Lettering & Color: Call out “8″ red letters” on drawings.
- Placement & Chevrons: Indicate sign locations, double-face where needed, and arrow directions.
- Photolum Markings: Note charging illumination and locations (LL26).
- Testing Logs: Keep monthly/annual records for FDNY inspection.
Use-Cases
Historic Buildings & Renovations
Use low-profile edge-lit or photoluminescent signs to preserve finishes and avoid surface conduit. Verify charging light for photoluminescent models and maintain 8″ red letter visibility on electrified units.
Warehouses & Industrial Facilities
Plan more generously for sightlines and higher mounting heights. NYC-rated combo units with high-wattage heads can help meet brighter egress requirements at exits and long aisles.
Schools, Hospitals & Campuses
Standardize on NYC-approved, self-testing models to ease maintenance across large inventories. Coordinate with generator circuits where applicable and retain test records.
Temporary Structures & Events
Photoluminescent signs are ideal where wiring is impractical. Use UL-listed products and ensure adequate ambient lighting during occupancy.
Implementation
Site Audit Checklist
- Inventory: Flag any green, plastic, or 6″ signs for replacement with NYC-approved 8″ red metal units.
- Sightlines: Ensure an EXIT indicator is always visible; add intermediate signs in long corridors.
- Chevrons: Specify arrow directions at decision points; use double-face signs at intersections.
- Power: Confirm each sign has battery backup or is on emergency power; test circuits after hours.
- Photolum Zones: Verify ~5 fc charging light; add unswitched fixtures if needed.
- Documentation: Keep a map of locations, models, and UL listings for plan review and inspections.
- AHJ Coordination: Clarify any edge cases with FDNY/DOB prior to installation.
Placement & Visibility
- Lettering: 8″ letters, 1″ stroke; mount high and unobstructed.
- Viewing Distance: Treat 100 ft as a practical maximum; reduce spacing in complex layouts.
- Directional Arrows: Enable left/right chevrons where the exit is not directly visible.
- Double-Face: Use ceiling/flag mounts where traffic comes from two directions.
- Contrast: Maintain strong contrast and avoid nearby confusing illuminated signage.
- “Not an Exit”: Label doors that could be mistaken for exits to prevent confusion.
Maintenance & Testing
- Monthly: 30-second function test on battery signs; note any faults.
- Annual: 90-minute full test; stagger by zones to simplify.
- Self-Diagnostic: Check indicator LEDs/logs; resolve faults promptly.
- Photolum: Wipe faces, verify charging light, perform occasional dark checks.
- Battery Lifecycle: Replace every 4–6 years or when runtime degrades.
- Training: Assign areas and schedules; include signage review in fire drills.
Budgeting & ROI
- Upfront vs Fines: NYC-approved gear costs more than generic, but avoids violations.
- Install Labor: Combos reduce fixture count; plan conduit during renovations.
- Energy: LED signs draw a few watts 24/7; photoluminescent signs cost $0 in energy.
- Ongoing: Account for batteries, testing labor, and spares; consider self-test to cut labor.
- Lifecycle: 10+ year hardware horizon; photolum materials last decades with minimal decay.
- Risk: Proper signage mitigates liability and protects occupants during emergencies.
Featured NYC-Approved Models
CNYXTE – NYC Steel Combo (Exit + Lights)
8″ red letters, steel housing, high-output lamp heads, UL 924 with 90-minute backup.
NYKXTEU – Die-Cast Aluminum NYC Exit Sign
Slim profile, architectural finish, 8″ red letters, UL 924 listed, 90-minute battery.
Recommended Ways to Buy
NYC-Approved Exit Signs
All stand-alone exit signs that meet NYC specs—8″ red LEDs, metal housings, 90-minute backup, UL 924.
NYC Emergency Lights
High-output emergency lights approved for NYC, sized for brighter egress paths.
Exit Sign & Light Combos
Combo fixtures consolidate sign + floodlights—fewer installs, full compliance at doorways.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes an exit sign “NYC-approved”?
8″ red letters (1″ stroke) on a metal housing with internal red LEDs and a 90-minute backup. UL 924 listing is required.
Can I use green or white exit signs in New York City?
No. NYC requires red lettering on a contrasting white/aluminum background. Green/black schemes are not compliant.
Are photoluminescent exit signs legal in NYC?
Yes, when UL 924 listed and installed with adequate charging illumination (~5 fc) during occupancy. Common in high-rise stairwells under Local Law 26.
Can I install self-luminous tritium exit signs in NYC?
No. Tritium exit signs are not permitted. Replace any legacy units with NYC-approved electric or photoluminescent models and recycle tritium properly.
Do I still need to test exit signs if they are hard-wired or self-testing?
Yes. Perform monthly function checks and annual 90-minute tests; keep logs for inspections. Self-testing units help automate this.
Which buildings are required to have exit signs in NYC?
Most occupancies beyond 1–2 family homes—multi-family residential, offices, retail, schools, healthcare, assembly, and industrial—require illuminated exit signage and emergency lighting.