In June 2004, the New York City Council approved new Building Code Local Law 26 requiring photoluminescent signs and markings on doors leading to exits and in emergency staircases of High Rise Office Buildings 75 feet or taller by July 1, 2006. The NYC Department of Buildings published its reference standards RS 6-1 and RS 6-1A in June 2005, which detail specifications, placement of markings, administrative filings to certify compliance and maintenance requirements. 

Since 2008, the NYC Building Code § 403.16 has been requiring all new high-rise buildings (except exit paths serving Group R-2) be provided with photoluminescent exit path markings conforming to Section 1026.