Bill
Bill > S4181
NJ S4181
NJ S4181Concerns availability of fire escape mechanisms in residential dwellings; provides penalty for violation.
summary
Introduced
03/03/2025
03/03/2025
In Committee
03/03/2025
03/03/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill provides for the implementation of additional fire safety measures in residential structures. This bill would require that in addition to smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, which are already required in certain residential structures, that such structures also be equipped with "fire escape mechanisms." A fire escape mechanism is defined as a device or system of devices which provide for the safe exit of a person or persons from a window when passage through the use of ground floor exits is inaccessible due to fire, smoke, or other life-threatening danger. This bill also provides the Commissioner of Community Affairs with authority to promulgate rules and regulations necessary to implement this new safety measure. The fire escape mechanism requirement would be enforced by the municipality if it has an ordinance requiring inspections upon a change of occupancy, or by the appropriate fire code official in the event the municipality does not have an inspection ordinance. The bill permits a penalty, not to exceed $1,000, to be imposed for a violation of the fire escape mechanism requirement.
AI Summary
This bill amends existing New Jersey law to enhance fire safety requirements for residential structures by mandating the installation of fire escape mechanisms in addition to existing smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Specifically, the bill requires all residential structures with living spaces above the ground floor to be equipped with a "fire escape mechanism," which is defined as a device or system that allows safe exit from a window when ground floor exits are inaccessible due to fire, smoke, or other life-threatening dangers. The mechanism could include an anchor plate, hook, and rope system. The Commissioner of Community Affairs is authorized to develop rules and regulations for implementing these requirements. The bill also updates enforcement procedures, stipulating that no certificate of occupancy shall be issued for a residential building without these safety features, and establishes graduated penalties for non-compliance: a fine of up to $500 for lacking a smoke alarm, up to $100 for missing a fire extinguisher, and up to $1,000 for not having a fire escape mechanism. These requirements apply to residential structures used by up to two households and will be enforced either by the municipality during occupancy changes or by the appropriate fire code official.
Committee Categories
Housing and Urban Affairs
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee (on 03/03/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4181 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/S4500/4181_I1.HTM |
Loading...