When are photoluminescent exit signs required?
Quick Answer
Photoluminescent exit signs are required in Los Angeles high-rise buildings (over 75 feet) per LAMC 91.1028.4, Santa Clarita commercial buildings over 3,000 sq ft, and in specific high-rise/high-hazard occupancies per IBC 1013 and NFPA 101.
Content Verification
Sources:
Code Reference
Various
LAMC 91.1028.4 / IBC 1013 / NFPA 101
Detailed Explanation
Photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) exit signs provide egress visibility during power outages:
1. **Los Angeles Requirement**: LAMC 91.1028.4 mandates photoluminescent exit signs in ALL buildings over 75 feet (approximately 7 stories).
2. **Santa Clarita Requirement**: Local amendment requires photoluminescent signs in commercial buildings over 3,000 square feet.
3. **IBC/NFPA Requirements**: Exit signs in certain high-rise, high-hazard, and assembly occupancies must have emergency illumination, which can be satisfied by photoluminescent materials.
4. **Specifications**: - Minimum 90-minute glow duration after charging - 30 mcd/m² luminance at 10 minutes after light removal - Must meet UL 924 or equivalent standards
5. **Maintenance**: Photoluminescent signs require exposure to ambient light for charging and periodic inspection.
Common Mistakes
- ×Using standard exit signs in LA high-rises
- ×Assuming LED emergency backup satisfies photoluminescent requirements
- ×Not verifying local amendments in cities like Santa Clarita
- ×Installing signs with insufficient glow duration
How to Verify Compliance
- ✓Determine building height and jurisdiction
- ✓Check local amendments for photoluminescent requirements
- ✓Request UL 924 certification from sign supplier
- ✓Verify minimum 90-minute glow duration in specifications
Official Code Text
"Exit signs in high-rise buildings shall be of a type that is internally illuminated and either photoluminescent or self-luminous."
How to Cite This Page
When referencing this information:
SpecCodes.com "When are photoluminescent exit signs required?" - Verified 2026-01-30Compliant Products
To meet these requirements, compliant signage typically includes:
Related Questions
Expert Verification
Compliance Information Verified
2026-01-30
CBC 2025 / ADA 2010
Effective January 1, 2026
California Building Standards Commission
Compliance Verification Notice
This information is provided for general reference purposes only. Local inspectors and authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ) have final authority over code interpretation and enforcement.
Before ordering signage, SpecCodes recommends:
- Contacting your local Building Department
- Reviewing current permit requirements for your project
- Confirming any local code amendments that may apply
Legal Notice: This content does not constitute legal advice. SpecCodes provides compliance information as a reference resource only. Users are responsible for verifying all requirements with their local jurisdiction before installation.