Bridgeport enforces Connecticut State Building Code rules requiring egress doors to open from the inside without keys or special knowledge. Panic hardware is mandatory for assembly occupancies and many commercial spaces.
The Connecticut State Building Code, applied locally by Bridgeport under Chapter 11, requires egress doors to open without a key, tool, or special knowledge from the side facing exit travel. Single-action latches are standard for residential dwelling unit doors. Assembly occupancies with 50+ occupants, educational uses, and many high-hazard spaces must use listed panic hardware. Double-cylinder deadbolts that need a key from the inside are prohibited on egress doors in nearly all occupancies. The Bridgeport Fire Marshal inspects hardware during routine and complaint-based fire safety inspections, and violations can be cited immediately.
Installing key-locked egress hardware, chained exits, or removing panic devices brings Fire Marshal correction orders, fines up to $250 per day, and possible occupancy suspension after a fatal fire.
Bridgeport, CT
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See how Bridgeport's door locking hardware rules stack up against other locations.
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