Bill > H894

This bill provides a specific exemption from standard door lock requirements for certain firearms businesses in North Carolina. The bill allows federal firearms dealers primarily selling firearms or ammunition to obtain a special permit from local fire code officials that exempts them from standard building code door lock regulations during nonbusiness hours, provided they meet several strict conditions. These conditions include paying a $500 permit fee, having a retail sales space no larger than 15,000 square feet, installing an approved alarm system, providing employees with a written facility locking plan, and posting conspicuous warning signs about the door lock exemption. The State Building Code Council is required to develop rules formalizing this exemption, ensuring it only applies when the business is closed to the public. The local inspection department will be responsible for issuing permits, conducting inspections, and can revoke the permit if the business fails to comply with the requirements. The exemption is temporary and will expire once permanent rules are adopted, and businesses that have already received alternative authorization for compliance are not subject to these new provisions. The bill aims to balance fire safety concerns with the security needs of firearms businesses.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H894