Where Are Fire Doors Required? A Clear Guide to All Mandatory Locations

Fire doors are required in any area where fire and smoke must be contained, especially between high-risk rooms, escape routes, and compartment lines inside commercial, residential, and industrial buildings. Their purpose is simple: slow down fire spread, protect occupants, and give firefighters time to respond.

This guide explains exactly where fire doors are required, why they matter, and how to choose compliant doors for your building.

Key Areas Where Fire Doors Are Required (Quick List)

Fire doors are typically required in these locations:

• Between garages and living spaces

• In stairwells and escape corridors

• Between kitchens and main halls (commercial buildings)

• In multi-unit residential buildings (apartment entrances)

• In utility rooms (boiler rooms, electrical rooms)

• Between compartment walls and floors

• In commercial and industrial buildings as per fire code

Fire Door Requirement Table (By Area & Reason)

Location / Area	Why Fire Doors Are Required	Typical Fire Rating
Stairwells & Escape Routes	Keep escape paths smoke-free	60–120 min
Garages → Homes	Block fire spread from vehicles	20–60 min
Apartment Entrances	Compartmentalize each unit	30–90 min
Boiler / Generator Rooms	High fire-risk equipment	60–120 min
Commercial Kitchens	Contain grease fire risks	60–120 min
Storage & Chemical Rooms	Prevent rapid fire spread	60–120 min
Industrial Facilities	Meet NFPA / local code	60–180 min

Where Fire Doors Are Required in Residential Buildings

Fire doors are required in specific high-risk zones inside houses and apartments:

1. Between the Garage and the Main House

This is the most common residential requirement. It prevents fires caused by vehicles, fuel, or tools from entering the main living area.

2. Entrance Doors in Multi-Unit Apartments

Each unit must be a compartment. The door must keep smoke and heat out long enough for rescue operations.

3. Basement & Utility Rooms

Rooms containing boilers, HVAC units, or electrical panels are often mandated to use fire doors to limit ignition hazards.

Where Fire Doors Are Required in Commercial Buildings

Commercial and public buildings have stricter codes because of higher occupancy.

1. Stairwells & Emergency Exits

Required to keep evacuation paths clear from smoke.

2. Corridor Fire Doors

These doors create fire-resistant compartments along hallways to slow spread within large buildings.

3. Commercial Kitchens

Restaurants and hotels must install fire doors between cooking areas and public spaces.

4. Office Fire Compartments

Open-plan offices use fire doors to separate work zones, meeting rooms, and storage areas.

Where Fire Doors Are Required in Industrial Buildings

Industrial sites carry higher ignition risks. Fire doors are typically required:

• Between manufacturing zones

• Between chemical storage areas and main production lines

• At warehouse sectional divides

• Between high-heat processing rooms

These locations ensure fire doesn’t spread rapidly across large structures.

Fire Door Code Requirements You Must Know

Most jurisdictions follow some version of:

• NFPA 80 (North America)

• International Building Code (IBC)

• European EN 1634-1 Standards

• Local fire department rules

General rules:

• Fire doors must stay self-closing

• Must not be propped open

• Must maintain clear labeling

• Must use certified fire-rated hardware

How to Choose the Right Fire Door (Simple Checklist)

1. Identify the risk level (garage, corridor, stairwell, industrial zone)

2. Check legal requirements (building code rating: 20, 30, 60, 90, 120 min)

3. Select proper material (steel, WPC, or composite fire doors)

4. Ensure correct hardware (hinges, closer, intumescent seals)

5. Verify certifications required in your region

Final Thoughts

Fire doors are required anywhere fire needs to be contained, slowed, or isolated—especially along escape routes and high-risk zones. Whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial, compliance is not optional. Choosing the right fire door protects life, property, and ensures your building passes inspection.

For high-quality fire doors built for global standards, Zonle Doors manufactures certified Wooden, steel, and composite fire-rated solutions for all building types.