New Illinois Skylight Safety Law & Roof Fall Protection Compliance

Building owners across the state must prepare for significant changes regarding rooftop safety. The Governor signed the Drew Price Act (SB2506/HB5222) into law, mandating strict fall protection measures for skylights and roof openings. These regulations aim to protect firefighters and first responders who navigate flat roofs during emergencies. While the full enforcement date is January 1, 2027, property owners should begin assessing their compliance now to avoid penalties and ensure safety. NSS Exteriors offers guidance and installation services to help you meet these new standards. Contact NSS Exteriors Chicagoland’s Skylight Experts for a free assessment today.

Overview of the Illinois Skylight Safety Law 2026

The Rooftop Safety for First Responders Act creates a statewide mandate for structural safety on low-sloped roofs. This legislation specifically targets the dangers posed by unprotected skylights and roof openings, which can be fatal hazards for emergency personnel operating in low-visibility conditions. The law requires that specific safety mechanisms be installed to prevent falls through these openings. You should understand the scope of this law before the deadline arrives. The new requirements apply to:

• New construction projects.
• New roof installations.
• Roof replacements or coverings.
• Major renovation projects that increase the floor area of a home or business by more than 50%.
• Existing buildings with flat roofs (subject to municipal surveys).

Required Protection Measures for Compliance

Property owners must install specific safety barriers to comply with the rooftop safety ordinance 2026. The law creates a clear standard for what constitutes adequate protection. You cannot simply rely on standard residential skylights, as many older models do not meet the weight-bearing requirements necessary to support a fully equipped firefighter. Acceptable protection methods under the new law include:

• Guardrails and Parapets: Installing a barrier or extended masonry wall around the opening that meets International Building Code requirements.
• Safety Screens: Utilizing flat roof skylight safety screens designed to cover the opening.
• Glazing: Using specific materials such as wired glass, plain glass, glass block, or polycarbonate plastic.

Any screen or glazing solution must be capable of withstanding a dynamic load of at least 400 pounds. This weight requirement ensures that the barrier can support a firefighter carrying heavy gear if they accidentally step on the opening.

Retrofitting and Municipal Inspections

Existing buildings are not exempt from scrutiny under this legislation. The law mandates that municipalities complete surveys of buildings within their jurisdiction that have skylights on low-sloped roofs. These surveys must be completed by January 1, 2027, and updated every two years thereafter.

This survey data will be shared with local fire and police departments to improve situational awareness during emergencies. Consequently, local code enforcement may require retrofitting of older buildings to meet safety standards. You should proactively seek commercial roof safety inspections in Illinois to identify potential violations before the municipal surveys begin.

Understanding OSHA and Fall Protection Standards

These new state laws align closely with existing federal safety standards. OSHA has long considered skylights to be "holes" in the roof surface that require fall protection. Failing to protect these openings puts service contractors, maintenance crews, and first responders at risk.

Skylight screen installation in Illinois is the most cost-effective method for achieving compliance with both OSHA and the new state mandate. Screens allow light to enter the building while providing a robust physical barrier against falls. By addressing this now, you protect your business from liability and contribute to the safety of the community.

How NSS Exteriors Can Help You Comply

NSS Exteriors specializes in helping Chicago and Illinois property owners navigate these complex regulations. Our team understands the specific load requirements and material standards outlined in the Drew Price Act. We provide comprehensive solutions ranging from guardrail installation to custom skylight safety screens. We encourage you to take advantage of our services to ensure your building is ready for 2027:

• Free Roof & Skylight Safety Inspections: We will assess your current roof conditions and identify non-compliant openings.
• Skylight Safety Screen Installation: We install high-strength screens that meet the 400-pound load requirement.
• Roof Guardrail & Fall Protection Solutions: We offer permanent barrier systems for perimeter and opening safety.
• Compliance Assistance: We help you understand local variances between Illinois state law, Chicago ordinances, and OSHA standards.

Contact NSS Exteriors Today

Don’t wait until inspectors show up at your property unannounced. Be proactive and take control by contacting us today to schedule your free inspection. Our team will thoroughly evaluate your roof’s condition, identify any potential issues, and help you secure your roof for the future. Protect your investment and gain peace of mind knowing your property is ready for whatever comes next.

Request a free skylight safety inspection