Interpretation #9529
Published May 14, 2026
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2023
- Code
- BUILDING
- Code Description
- Chapter
- 9
- Section
- 903.2.1.2
- Topic
- Fire sprinklers for assembly areas
Question
Exception 2 clearly states that in a restaurant sprinklers are not required in fire areas under 200 patrons. That seems to clearly conflict with the FFPC 13.3.2.6.1 which states the load is 100.
Answer Published 04/28/2026 at 12:36 PM
This may be a good topic for a code change to be submitted.
Commentary
If there is statistical data to show why the different numbers were chosen, it would be a good topic of discussion. While many of the conflicts between the philosophy of ICC and NFPA have been corrected, this may be one that still needs to be addressed. There may also be reasons based on construction types and travel distances that the different numbers were chosen. Some research may be indicated