Code Requirements
Meeting code requirements isn’t optional – it’s essential.
National and regional codes exist to ensure the safety, accessibility, and reliability of critical communication systems during emergencies. Whether it’s enabling life-saving communication in an elevator cab, ensuring public safety in a stairwell, or replacing legacy phone lines with compliant cellular gateways, adherence to code protects both people and property. At AVIRE, we design every solution with code compliance at the forefront. Our products are engineered and tested to meet or exceed applicable regulations. We actively track code updates and make product enhancements to ensure you stay compliant.
Compare codes at a glance
| Code Standard | Life Safety | Elevator Safety | Public Safety | Cellular Communications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADA |  | | |  |
| ASME A17.1 | | | | |
| CSA B44 | | | | |
| E911 | | | | |
| FCC | | | | |
| IBC/ICC | | | | |
| NFPA 70 (NEC) | | | | |
| NFPA 72 | | | | |
| NFPA 101 | | | | |
| NFPA 1221/1225 | | | | |
| U.S. Pool Phone Laws | | | | |
| UL | | | | |
| UL 2524 | | | | |
| UL 2525 | | | | |
Code Requirements
Several FCC regulations directly affect building communication systems and emergency devices:
- Part 15 regulates unlicensed radio-frequency (RF) devices, ensuring that products like wireless gateways, Wi-Fi systems, and signal boosters do not cause harmful interference.
- Part 68 sets technical standards for direct connection of terminal equipment (such as telephones, elevator phones, and gateways) to the public switched telephone network (PSTN), including rules for safety, interoperability, and network protection.
- Part 90 governs licensed private land mobile radio (LMR) services, including public safety radio communications used by first responders. It establishes technical and operational requirements for systems such as bi-directional amplifiers (BDAs) and distributed antenna systems (DAS) that extend emergency responder radio coverage inside buildings.
Together, these regulations ensure safe, reliable, and interference-free communications across commercial, residential, and public safety environments.
Who It Affects
- Manufacturers of communication equipment and devices (wired and wireless)
- Building owners and facility managers using RF or telephone-connected systems
- Telecom providers and system integrators
- Designers and installers of elevator communication and public safety DAS systems
- Public safety agencies and first responders using LMR radio services
- AHJs enforcing communication and life safety system compliance
Current Code Versions
- FCC Part 15 – Subpart B (Unintentional Radiators) and Subpart C (Intentional Radiators) – latest version 2023
- FCC Part 68 – Connection of Terminal Equipment to the PSTN – rules continuously updated by FCC and ACTA (Administrative Council for Terminal Attachments)
- FCC Part 90 – Private Land Mobile Radio Services – most recent revision 2021, with ongoing spectrum updates for public safety and interoperability
Key updates include:
- Part 15: Clarified limits for RF emissions, spectrum sharing, and expanded provisions for unlicensed devices in 6 GHz and 60 GHz bands.
- Part 68: Streamlined registration requirements for compliant terminal equipment, updated labeling requirements, and ongoing migration from legacy PSTN to VoIP networks.
- Part 90: Narrowbanding mandates for public safety channels, rules for digital trunked radio systems, and requirements for in-building signal boosters to support emergency responder communications.
- Continued FCC focus on preventing harmful interference between unlicensed devices and licensed public safety systems.
Additional Information
FCC regulations apply nationwide and are legally enforceable, with penalties for non-compliance including fines, equipment recalls, or denial of operating authority. These rules intersect with building codes (NFPA 72, NFPA 1225, IBC) by ensuring that communication equipment installed in elevators, stairwells, and areas of refuge meets both safety and performance requirements.
AVIRE products designed to comply with FCC Parts 15, 68, and 90 ensure that emergency communication devices operate reliably, avoid harmful interference, and integrate seamlessly with public safety communication networks. Compliance also helps building owners pass inspections and meet both federal and local requirements for life safety systems.
Need Help Navigating Code Compliance?
Our experts are here to help you choose the right communication solutions for your building – whether you’re designing a new system, upgrading for code compliance, or preparing for inspection.
- Get personalized guidance
- Ensure your systems meet your local code requirements
- Simplify compliance with AVIRE-certified solutions
