TX SB2835

Municipalities may authorize apartment buildings up to six stories with no more than four dwelling units per floor to have a single stairway instead of multiple exits

Buildings must meet strict fire safety requirements including automatic sprinklers in stairways complying with NFPA Standard 13, two-hour fire-rated stairway enclosures, and one-hour fire-rated corridors from units to stairways

Maximum distance from any dwelling unit door to the exit stairway is limited to 20 feet, with total exit access travel distance capped at 125 feet

Required safety features include automatic smoke and fire detection systems with occupant notification in common spaces, corridors, laundry rooms, mechanical rooms, storage rooms, and stairways

Passed the Senate 29-2 on May 9, 2025 and the House 81-57 on May 27, 2025; takes effect September 1, 2025