Bill
Bill > A559
NJ A559
NJ A559Concerns availability of fire escape mechanisms in residential dwellings; provides penalty for violation.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 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 mandates that residential structures with living space above the ground floor must be equipped with a "fire escape mechanism," defined as a device or system of devices, such as an anchor plate, hook, and rope system, that allows for safe exit from a window when ground floor exits are blocked by fire or smoke. This requirement is in addition to existing mandates for smoke alarms and portable fire extinguishers, and the Commissioner of Community Affairs will establish specific rules for these mechanisms. Enforcement will fall to municipalities with inspection ordinances or fire code officials, and violations can result in a penalty of up to $1,000, an increase from previous penalties for other fire safety equipment.
Committee Categories
Housing and Urban Affairs
Sponsors (3)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Housing Committee (on 01/13/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/A559 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/A1000/559_I1.HTM |
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