Brooklyn since 2014All five boroughsSame-day response during business hours

What is NYC AC § 27-383?

Quick Answer

This section outlines the requirements for exit signs and exit path markings in buildings, particularly for occupancy groups J-1, J-2, J-3, and E. It mandates clear indications of exits and specifies the use of photoluminescent materials for exit path markings in high-rise buildings. Applies to building owners of high-rise office and occupancy group E buildings.

General informational summary. Not legal advice for your situation. Consult an attorney before acting on any specific matter.

Michael Nacmias - Founding PartnerMichael Sargo - Partner
From the team atNacmias Law Firm, PLLCBrooklyn-based attorneys representingproperty owners across all five boroughsMeet the team →

§ 27-383 Requirements.

AC § 27-383

(a)Exit signs. Except in occupancy groups J-2 and J-3, the location of every exit on every floor and every opening from a room classified in occupancy group J-1 and containing cubicles shall be clearly indicated by exit signs. Such signs shall be placed at an angle with the exit opening if such placement is required for the signs to serve their purpose. In long corridors, in open floor areas, and in all other situations where the location of the exit may not be readily visible or understood, directional signs shall be provided to serve as guides from all portions of the corridor or floor.

(b)Exit path markings in high rise office buildings and in occupancy group E high rise buildings. On and after July 1, 2006 all high rise office buildings and all high rise buildings classified in occupancy group E shall have exit path markings conforming to this subdivision. This provision shall be retroactive and shall apply to buildings constructed on and after such date and to buildings in existence on such date. All exit path markings required herein shall be of an approved photoluminescent material. The markings shall be washable, non-toxic, non-radioactive, and if subjected to fire must be self extinguishing when the flame is removed.

(1)All doors opening to corridors, to an exit, or to an exit passageway, shall be marked with the word "exit".

(2)Within exit stairs, horizontal extensions in exit stairs, horizontal exits, supplemental vertical exits and exit passageways, except within street level lobbies, there shall be directional markings.

(3)Required markings for exit paths shall comply with the technical standards for installation and placement to be set forth in a reference standard. Such reference standard shall be designated RS 6-1 and shall be adopted on or before January 1, 2006.

Common Questions

Our team

Meet the people you will work with

Free case review

Have a matter that touches § 27-383?

Free 15-minute case review with the attorney handling your matter. Same-day response during business hours across all five boroughs — OATH hearings, Housing Court, and real estate closings.

Or email us

[email protected]

An attorney reads every message.

  • Same-day response

    During business hours

  • Direct attorney access

    Same lawyer from intake to close

  • Flat-fee pricing

    On most OATH and closing matters