While the idea of adding greenery to a fire escape with planter boxes is appealing, it is generally unsafe and illegal. Fire escapes are designated emergency egress routes, not balconies or decorative spaces. Placing any obstructions, including planters, violates building and fire codes in most jurisdictions. This can lead to fines from landlords or city inspectors and, critically, could block a lifesaving escape during a fire.
The primary legal consideration is compliance with the International Fire Code (IFC) and local amendments, which mandate that fire escapes and exterior stairways must remain clear and unobstructed at all times. Planters can trap debris, rust the structure, and make the stairs slippery. For renters, modifying a fire escape typically breaches the lease agreement.
Instead, consider safe and legal alternatives. Use interior window boxes on the inside sill, install approved wall-mounted planters on adjacent walls (not on the escape itself), or utilize rooftop spaces if accessible and permitted. Always prioritize safety and check with your landlord and local fire department before altering any building exterior. Urban gardening thrives on creativity within the boundaries of safety and law.