Atlanta requires compliant single-action egress hardware on exit doors of most occupancies. Atlanta Code Ch. 8 follows Georgia State Minimum Building and Fire Codes, including IBC Section 1010 and IFC requirements for panic hardware.
Door hardware on egress paths in Atlanta commercial buildings, multi-family dwellings, and assembly spaces must allow occupants to exit in a single motion without keys, special knowledge, or effort, per IBC Section 1010 as adopted by Atlanta Code Ch. 8. Panic hardware is required on assembly and educational occupancies above occupant-load thresholds. Deadbolts and chain locks above the operating handle on dwelling unit entry doors are prohibited unless integrated with a single-action release. Schools may use approved barricade-style devices that comply with state Department of Education and AFRD guidance. Apartment access-control systems must allow free egress at all times even during power loss.
Non-compliant egress hardware is a major life-safety violation; AFRD can issue immediate correction orders, fines, and in severe cases revoke certificates of occupancy until hardware is replaced.
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See how Atlanta's door locking hardware rules stack up against other locations.
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