Arlington, TX Building Safety: Door Locking Hardware (2026)
Key Facts
- Code basis
- Adopted IBC 1010
- Single-motion rule
- Yes for egress
- TX security devices
- Property Code 92
- Lockdown hardware
- Fire Marshal approval
Summary
Arlington commercial and multifamily buildings must follow International Building Code egress hardware rules so doors release in a single motion during emergencies. Special hardware is allowed for schools and daycares only when specific code conditions are met.
Sec. 92.153. SECURITY DEVICES REQUIRED WITHOUT NECESSITY OF TENANT REQUEST. (a) Except as provided by Subsections (b), (e), (f), (g), and (h) and without necessity of request by the tenant, a dwelling must be equipped with: (1) a window latch on each exterior window of the dwelling; (2) a doorknob lock or keyed dead bolt on each exterior door; (3) a sliding door pin lock on each exterior sliding glass door of the dwelling; (4) a sliding door handle latch or a sliding door security bar on each exterior sliding glass door of the dwelling; and (5) a keyless bolting device and a door viewer on each exterior door of the dwelling... Sec. 92.156. REKEYING OR CHANGE OF SECURITY DEVICES.
Full Breakdown
The International Building Code as adopted by Arlington in Chapter 10 requires egress doors to unlatch with a single operation and prohibits double-cylinder deadbolts, padlocks, and chains on required exits during occupancy. Schools, daycares, and certain assembly occupancies may use lockdown hardware only when listed under IBC 1010 and approved by the Arlington Fire Marshal. Apartment dwelling unit doors must include a single-action latch on the inside. Texas Property Code Chapter 92 also requires landlords to provide compliant security devices like keyless deadbolts, door viewers, and pin locks on sliding doors at the owners expense.
Violations & Fines
Egress violations are fire and building code citations carrying fines up to 2,000 dollars per day and immediate removal orders for blocked or chained exits during occupancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a business chain its front doors after closing?
Who installs apartment security devices?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Arlington
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Arlington to another location·View the Texas building safety overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Door Locking Hardware in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Tarrant County handle door locking hardware.