Contact Us   |   Sign In   |   Register

Committee Log In

Download Final PDF

Interpretation #8219

Original Request

  • Date: March 05, 2019
  • Requested By: Derek Wiechmann, PG, CBO
  • Requester E-Mail: DWiechmann@Ocalafl.org
  • Code Version: 2017
  • Code: BUILDING
  • Code Description:
  • Chapter:
  • Section: SECTION 903 AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS, [F] 903.2.8 Group R
  • Topic: Townhouses

  • Question: Does the section 903.2.8 apply to 3 or more attached units meeting the definition of "Townhouse", per the 2017 Florida Building Code, Building?
    SECTION 903 AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS, [F] 903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area?

Answer on 03/05/2019 at 12:50 PM

Yes. If a townhouse is designed and constructed in accordance with the provision of the FBC-Building, fire sprinkler protection would be required under 903.2.8

Commentary:

If a townhouse is constructed under the FBC-Residential, fire sprinkler protection would not be required. In addition, the applicant refers to NFPA 13R fire sprinkler protection. This type of protection would not be appropriate for a townhouse constructed under the FBC-Building or the FBC-Residential. NFPA 13D protection would be the appropriate design.