Enacted in 2018, Local Law 115 includes a “Close the Door” notice requirement. This requirement updated the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) rules regarding
“Fire and Emergency Preparedness Guide, Checklist and Notices” found in 3 RCNY 401-06. Close the Door notices are intended to provide a clear reminder about the importance of closing each door as you exit a building during a fire. This helps contain fire and smoke to aid in firefighting operations and prevents smoke from entering egress stairs.
Close the Door notices have been required for over six years, but we’ve recently seen an increase in enforcement by Department of Buildings (DOB) inspectors. Here’s what building owners and property managers need to know to ensure compliance with the requirements.
Does the Close the Door notice requirement apply to my building?
The requirement applies to R-2 occupancies (three-family dwellings or more). Homeless shelters with fire alarm voice communication capability and dormitories/student apartments are exempt.
What does the Close the Door notice need to include?
The design and content of the notice must be substantially similar to the example provided by FDNY. It must be either (a) framed under plexiglass, (b) laminated with a firm backing, or (c) a vinyl sticker. Local Law 115 provides details about acceptable materials. Specific design elements include:
- Minimum size of notice: 2-3/4” x 12” excluding any frame.
- The text must be clearly legible.
- White lettering on red background, or red lettering on white background.
- The first line of text must be 38-point Times New Roman font (or equivalent).
- The second line of text must be 24-point Times New Roman font (or equivalent).
- The third and fourth lines of text must be 14-point Times New Roman font (or equivalent).
- The administrative code citation must be in 14-point Times New Roman font (or equivalent).
- The full-color illustration must be 1-3/4” x 1-3/4” minimum size on white background.
- The notice must be in English.
- Additional languages and symbols may be provided if the owner feels it would benefit occupants.
- The text must read:In a Fire, Close All Doors Behind You!
Keep Fire and Smoke Out of Building Hallways and Stairs.
Keep Apartment and Stairwell Doors Closed at All Other Times. Protect Your Neighbors and Your Home!
NYC Admin Code §15-135 - The sign must be placed in the public hallway corridor side of each stairwell door. Notices are not required for an open stair.
We recommend property managers walk the stairwell corridors to determine whether additional or replacement signs are needed. If you have already received a violation, you can contact us for assistance in resolving it.
