In the city and county of Los Angeles, the rule is if there are security bars on bedroom windows in bedrooms where there is no other means of escape in case of a hallway fire outside of that bedroom, the security bars must have working release latches that can easily be opened from the inside. If not, the security bars must be removed. This rule applies only to bedroom windows. Release latches should be tested yearly per city and county code.
The offical code requires that every sleeping room below the fourth story shall have at least one operable window or door approved for emergency escape or rescue that shall open directly into a public street, public alley, yard or exit court. The emergency door or window shall be operable from the inside to provide a full, clear opening without the use of separate tools. Bars, grilles, grates, security roll down shutters or similar devices may be installed on emergency escape or rescue windows or doors, provided:
- (1) The devices are equipped with approved release mechanisms that are openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort; and
- (2) The building is equipped with hard-wired or battery operated smoke detectors install in accordance with city and county standards.
Informative LA Times article on the subject here
Note: We do NOT certify release latches are operable. Contact the businesses below for any type of release latch certification. We only note if required release latches are present if there are security bars on any bedroom window. Contact a working professional below for an independent inspection and guidance.
Do you need a security bar installer/inspector/repairman? Here is a list in alphabetical order
- Home Window Express – 323-233-9185 (Los Angeles)
- Isaac’s Ironworks – 818-982-1955 (Van Nuys)
- J and J Fence – 310-762-6544
- JCR Iron Works – 323-434-4822 (Los Angeles) contact Juan Carlos
- Lamasi Iron Works – 626-442-5487 (Rosemead)
- Pedros Iron Works – 323-683-7619 (Los Angeles)
- Secure Lock and Key – 310-930-5373 – Repair of release latches (Los Angeles) contact Nick
- Welding Repairs Plus – 818-633-8598 – Fabricator (Winnetka)
Call us with any questions you may have at 310-800-4418.