Hackensack, NJ Building Safety: Door Locking Hardware (2026)

Section 100-17R governs building security hardware for every leased residential unit in the City. Doors providing access to a dwelling, rooming or housekeeping unit that is rented, leased or let must have a deadbolt lock designed to be readily opened from the egress side without keys, special knowledge or effort, and the lock's throw must be at least one inch. The lock must be installed per the manufacturer's specifications and kept in good working order, and the code explicitly disqualifies a sliding bolt from counting as an acceptable deadbolt.

The same section extends beyond doors: any operable window located wholly or partly within six feet above ground level or a walking surface, and that provides access to a rented unit, must carry a window sash locking device, and a basement hatchway serving a rented unit must have a device that secures it from unauthorized entry. These security requirements sit within the broader exterior-structure article, which separately requires that all exterior doors and hardware be maintained in good condition and that locks tightly secure the door at every entrance to a dwelling or sleeping unit.