Are security doors allowed in the city of Atlanta? (cul-de-sac, fit in)

[readytoroll]

Hi Atlanta forum:

I am still researching Atlanta as a possibility for relocation, but I was wondering if Atlanta allows security doors? I realized during our visist down this summer that we did not see any. Just curious, because they can be an asset if you live in a not so desirable area.

[atlantagreg30127]

You may need to better define "security doors".

You mean security bars on doors, such as the storm door type of doors that have bars and a lock? Metal doors? etc.

If that's what you mean, then I've never heard of a city not allowing them. Now, individual subdivisions that have home owners associations have strict control over what you can and cannot do outside in visible places, so they probably ban them. Apartment complexes also probably will not allow a renter to put one on a door. But if you're in a non-subdivision neighborhood and own your home, you can pretty much do as you like so long as it doesn't break any local code violations (tall grass, etc).

[rcsteiner]

Originally Posted by readytoroll

I am still researching Atlanta as a possibility for relocation, but I was wondering if Atlanta allows security doors? I realized during our visist down this summer that we did not see any. Just curious, because they can be an asset if you live in a not so desirable area.

For most of the houses in our area (which have fairly large windows), entrance through a ground- or porch-level window is almost as easy as through the door, so I suspect adding a security door would accomplish very little.

[readytoroll]

Originally Posted by atlantagreg30127

You may need to better define "security doors".

You mean security bars on doors, such as the storm door type of doors that have bars and a lock? Metal doors? etc.

If that's what you mean, then I've never heard of a city not allowing them. Now, individual subdivisions that have home owners associations have strict control over what you can and cannot do outside in visible places, so they probably ban them. Apartment complexes also probably will not allow a renter to put one on a door. But if you're in a non-subdivision neighborhood and own your home, you can pretty much do as you like so long as it doesn't break any local code violations (tall grass, etc).

Yes, I am referring to the storm door type that have bars and a lock and are usually black. I did not see any on homes in any of the subdivisions or cul-de-sacs we visited. What do you think are the attitudes about security doors that subdivision will not allow them?

[KevK]

You can have them on a residence

[ADT Authorized Dealer]

Originally Posted by readytoroll

Hi Atlanta forum:

I am still researching Atlanta as a possibility for relocation, but I was wondering if Atlanta allows security doors? I realized during our visist down this summer that we did not see any. Just curious, because they can be an asset if you live in a not so desirable area.

What are security doors, I'm in the security business here in Atlanta...

[readytoroll]

[quote=ADT Authorized Dealer;2488932]What are security doors, I'm in the security business here in Atlanta...[/QUOT


Security doors, as they are called here in Milwaukee, are the black storm type doors that many people have replaced for their storm doors. They are made of black metal with bars on the top, lower and middle of the door. The doors can also be ordered with decorative bars and accents that make them look a lot more pleasing. The are very strong and can be fitted with dead bolt locks, which make it VERY difficult for someone to break into your home through the front, back or side doors. They usually come in a black ornate color and can be easily sprayed or painted to match the color of your entry door.

[readytoroll]

Originally Posted by rcsteiner

For most of the houses in our area (which have fairly large windows), entrance through a ground- or porch-level window is almost as easy as through the door, so I suspect adding a security door would accomplish very little.

According to a security company when I purchased my home, MOST burglaries or home invasions are done by kicking in doors because thieves are looking for the quickest entry. Yes, windows are a source of entry, but can be a deterrent because of the noise of breaking glass.

[atlantagreg30127]

Originally Posted by readytoroll

Yes, I am referring to the storm door type that have bars and a lock and are usually black. I did not see any on homes in any of the subdivisions or cul-de-sacs we visited. What do you think are the attitudes about security doors that subdivision will not allow them?

Two things, usually...

1) They may not view them as attractive, and they may not fit in with the "look" the subdivision wants all the homes to have.

2) When you see them on doors, you immediately get the impression that you MUST have them in that neighborhood for some reason (as in high crime rates). If people think you have a crime problem, it will be harder for you (and your neighbors) to sell their homes. This is usually the best reason that HOAs don't allow them.


Even if you can't have them, there are still things you can do. Getting metal burglar-resistant strike plates for the doorknob and deadbolt area, with extra long screws. Installing a second deadbolt about 16 inches above the first one, which adds a lot of strength. Making sure you have a fully solid door (metal or metal coated). Having window locks that require keys and/or using laminated glass in your windows. A cheaper alternative is "impact resistant film" that can easily be put on window glass. Etc.

[readytoroll]

Originally Posted by atlantagreg30127

Two things, usually...

1) They may not view them as attractive, and they may not fit in with the "look" the subdivision wants all the homes to have.

2) When you see them on doors, you immediately get the impression that you MUST have them in that neighborhood for some reason (as in high crime rates). If people think you have a crime problem, it will be harder for you (and your neighbors) to sell their homes. This is usually the best reason that HOAs don't allow them.


Even if you can't have them, there are still things you can do. Getting metal burglar-resistant strike plates for the doorknob and deadbolt area, with extra long screws. Installing a second deadbolt about 16 inches above the first one, which adds a lot of strength. Making sure you have a fully solid door (metal or metal coated). Having window locks that require keys and/or using laminated glass in your windows. A cheaper alternative is "impact resistant film" that can easily be put on window glass. Etc.

I had never heard of "impact resistant film" so I will be going to the hardware store to check it out. Thanks. Great info for any homeowner.