Richmond enforces Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code requirements that egress doors unlock from the inside without keys, special knowledge, or effort, with limited exceptions for schools and detention facilities.
The Virginia USBC and International Building Code Chapter 10 require that doors in the path of egress be openable from the egress side without the use of a key, tool, or special knowledge. Single operations such as a lever or panic bar must release all locking devices simultaneously. Deadbolts above latches are limited in residential settings to keep escape routes simple in fires. Schools have a narrow exception for classroom barricade devices that meet specific code amendments. Richmond Permits and Inspections checks hardware during certificate-of-occupancy inspections, and Richmond Fire flags violations during operational fire safety inspections in apartment buildings, restaurants, and assemblies.
Stop-work or stop-occupancy orders. Class 1 misdemeanor for life-safety violations. Insurance carriers may deny claims if locked egress contributed to injury or death.
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