How Many Evacuation Maps Are Required in a Building? 2026 Rules

General Guidelines for Map Quantity

While exact requirements vary by jurisdiction, these guidelines ensure adequate coverage:

• Minimum 1 map per floor
• 1 map at each main entrance
• 1 map at each stairwell entrance
• 1 map in each common area (break room, lobby)
• Additional maps for large floors (1 per 10,000 sq ft)
• Maps visible from all occupied areas

Quick Calculator by Building Type

Estimate your map needs:

• Small office (under 5,000 sq ft): 2-3 maps
• Medium office (5,000-15,000 sq ft): 4-6 maps
• Large office (15,000-50,000 sq ft): 8-15 maps
• Retail store: 3-5 maps (plus stockroom)
• Restaurant: 2-4 maps (front + kitchen)
• Warehouse: 4-8 maps (plus dock areas)

Optimal Posting Locations

Post maps in these locations for best coverage:

• Main entrance (visitors see immediately)
• Reception/lobby areas
• Near each emergency exit
• At stairwell entrances
• In break rooms and kitchens
• In conference rooms
• At elevator lobbies
• In high-traffic corridors

Multi-Floor Buildings

Each floor needs floor-specific maps:

• Each floor has unique layout and routes
• "You Are Here" must be floor-accurate
• Stairwell maps should show which floor
• Consider inter-floor evacuation routes
• Ground floor may need extra maps (more traffic)

Get All the Maps You Need

Our professional plans include unlimited maps, making it easy to cover your entire building with proper evacuation maps.