Where Should Fire Exit Signs Be Placed on a Diagram? 2026 Guide

Exit Marking Requirements

Fire codes require all exits to be clearly marked on evacuation diagrams:

• Every exit door must be shown
• Exit symbols must be clearly visible
• Primary exits should be distinguished from secondary
• Emergency-only exits should be noted
• Exit doors vs. non-exit doors must be clear

Standard Exit Symbols

Use recognized symbols for consistency:

• EXIT text or word in rectangle
• Running person toward door icon
• Green color standard for exits
• Arrow indicating direction of travel
• Wheelchair symbol for accessible exits

What to Mark vs. What Not to Mark

Be clear about what qualifies as an exit:

• Mark: All doors leading outside
• Mark: Stairwell doors (with stair indication)
• Mark: Emergency exits with alarms
• Don't mark: Interior doors between rooms
• Don't mark: Closet or storage doors
• Don't mark: Doors to dead-end areas

Placement Tips

For maximum clarity:

• Position symbols exactly on the door location
• Use consistent symbol size throughout
• Include door swing direction if relevant
• Label exits numerically for reference
• Distinguish accessible exits clearly

Get Properly Marked Diagrams

AI generators automatically identify and properly mark all exits using standardized symbols that meet fire code requirements.