Phoenix City Code Chapter 10 adopts the 2018 International Fire Code, including Section 1010 governing door operation, hardware, and locking arrangements. Egress doors must allow free escape with a single motion and panic hardware on assembly and educational occupancies.
Phoenix has adopted the 2018 International Fire Code (IFC) under Chapter 10 of the City Code with local amendments. IFC Section 1010 specifies that egress doors must be readily openable from the egress side without keys, special knowledge, or special effort. Single motion of the handle must release any latches. Panic hardware is required on Group A (assembly), E (education), H (hazardous), and high-occupancy uses. Electromagnetic locks must release automatically on power loss, fire alarm, or manual switch. Phoenix Fire Marshal enforces compliance during inspections. Recent IFC amendments allow classroom barricade devices in K-12 schools where the local AHJ approves, and Phoenix accepts these only with full release on egress side.
Non-compliant locking hardware can trigger Phoenix Fire Marshal stop-orders, occupancy suspensions, and civil penalties up to $2,500 per day per Chapter 10. Repeat or willful violations risk criminal misdemeanor referral and certificate-of-occupancy revocation.
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