Fire Escapes: What you need to know

Fire Escape being repaired by the SF Escape Artist Team

You may not realize it, but fire escapes have been saving lives for over 160 years. They were first mandated in New York City in 1860, after a deadly tenement fire exposed just how vulnerable residents were in multi-story housing. By the late 1800s and early 1900s, San Francisco buildings followed suit, and that’s why you still see those iron balconies and ladders clinging to the sides of older buildings today.

But fire escapes weren’t originally meant for the kind of dramatic exits you see in the movies. In reality, they were often installed to give firefighters access to sleeping tenants, especially in bedrooms where residents could be unconscious from smoke inhalation. That’s why so many fire escapes are still positioned outside bedroom windows, rather than common areas.

Why You Can’t Just Add a Fire Escape Today: The Codes

Back then, building codes were nearly nonexistent. San Francisco didn’t adopt its first formal code until after the 1906 earthquake and fire, which leveled much of the city. Before that, buildings were often constructed without plans, permits, or oversight.

From 1906 through the 1940s, fire safety standards gradually improved. By the 1960s, sprinkler systems, smoke detectors, and better firefighting equipment became standard, and fire escapes fell out of favor. Today, fire escapes are largely a legacy feature—and new ones are rarely permitted.

In 2002, San Francisco’s Department of Building Inspection published Administrative Bulletin AB-019, which spells out the very limited conditions under which new fire escapes can be added to buildings. Spoiler alert: it’s a short list. Here’s when they’re allowed, in a nutshell:

• Fire escapes are only allowed on 1- to 4-story buildings

• The lot must be narrow—37.5 feet or less in width

• The system must meet modern safety criteria

Also, the old accordion-style ladders—the kind you yank down from the second floor—are no longer approved. New fire escapes must use:

• A fixed ladder, or

• A counterbalanced ladder that automatically lowers when weight is applied

Design and Installation: Not for the Faint of Heart

Here’s where it gets tricky: designing and permitting a compliant fire escape today is not simple. The ladders and platforms need to meet modern codes, and most architects and engineers prefer safer, more code-compliant solutions (like internal stairs or additional egress paths) when they’re available.

But if you’re working with a narrow lot or trying to bring an existing building into compliance, you may still need one. And you’ll want a contractor who knows the ins and outs—structurally, legally, and practically.

The good news? We’ve got one. Check out our prequalified fire escape vendor here:

Find a great Fire Escape Contractor Today!

Final Word

Fire escapes may seem old-school, but they’re still part of the San Francisco code landscape. Whether you’re restoring one, replacing one, or trying to figure out if you even need one, make sure you know the rules—and work with someone who does.

At Property Atlas, we keep track of these things so you don’t have to.

We hope this has helped you understand more about fire escapes!

Brought to you by Property Atlas