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Chicago Approved Exit Signs – Code-Compliant Signage for City Requirements
Chicago-approved exit signs are specifically designed to comply with the City of Chicago's unique building and fire code regulations. These signs are required in nearly all commercial, institutional, and multi-unit residential buildings throughout the city. Unlike standard models, Chicago-approved fixtures must meet enhanced specifications—including 8-inch red letters with a 1-inch stroke, metal housings, and specific mounting and visibility requirements outlined by the Chicago Building Code and Fire Prevention Bureau.
All models are UL 924 listed and meet NFPA 101 and OSHA life safety standards. Each fixture includes an integrated battery backup system that provides at least 90 minutes of emergency illumination during power outages. These signs are engineered for long-term durability and performance, using tamper-resistant housings made from steel or die-cast aluminum, with sealed electronics and clearly legible red legends that remain visible in a variety of conditions.
Chicago-approved exit signs are typically used in stairwells, corridors, exit passageways, lobbies, and vestibules in both new construction and retrofit projects. Many models include universal mounting hardware, field-selectable directional chevrons, and optional self-testing diagnostics for simplified inspection and compliance tracking.
For additional protection in outdoor or semi-exposed areas, some models offer damp or wet-location ratings to guard against humidity or moisture infiltration. These units are built to withstand the physical and environmental demands of public, high-traffic areas while ensuring safe evacuation in emergencies.
What makes an exit sign “Chicago approved”? It must meet local mandates for 8-inch red letters with 1-inch stroke, metal housing construction, UL 924 compliance, and specific mounting visibility rules required by the Chicago Building Code.
For all-in-one solutions that combine lighting and signage, explore our Chicago-approved exit sign and emergency light combos. To complete your system with matching illumination, view our full line of Chicago-compliant emergency lights designed for code-required egress coverage.
FAQs About Chicago Approved Exit Signs
❓ What makes an exit sign “Chicago approved”?
Chicago-approved exit signs meet the city’s specific code requirements, including 8-inch tall red letters with a 1-inch stroke, steel or metal housings, and field-installable directional chevrons.
❓ Are these fixtures UL 924 listed?
Yes. All Chicago-compliant models are UL 924 certified and also meet NFPA 101 and OSHA emergency lighting requirements.
❓ Where are Chicago-approved signs typically installed?
They are commonly used in stairwells, hallways, exit passageways, lobbies, and corridors of commercial, residential, and institutional buildings within Chicago.
❓ Can I use these signs outdoors or in wet areas?
Some models are damp- or wet-location rated and include sealed housings for use in covered outdoor spaces or humid interior environments.
❓ Do you offer matching emergency lights or combo fixtures?
Yes. We offer both Chicago-approved emergency lights and combo units that integrate exit signage with emergency path lighting in a single fixture.