Sprinklers Required by IBC?

9/5/2017

An existing, non-sprinklered 2,800 sqft single-story building is divided into (2) 1,400 sqft restaurants. The division between the restaurants is a 2-hour rated wall.

The owner would like to remove the dividing wall to create a single 2,800 sqft restaurant. Will the removal of this wall prompt a requirement for sprinklers to be installed in the building? This project is under the International Building Code.

1 Comment

Patrick Turner, P.E.

9/5/2017 08:37:28 am

Per IBC, 2009 Section 303.1, Restaurants are considered an A-2 occupancy. Per Section 903.2.1.2, "An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-2 occupancies where the following conditions exists:
1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 sf;
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more; or
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies."

Therefore, if none of the 3 conditions above exist (which number 1 definitely does not), then by IBC, the restaurant would not require a sprinkler system. However, I would check with the AHJ (clearly specifying the information above), as sometimes they will require a sprinkler system when IBC or Life Safety Code do not.

-Patrick Turner, P.E.

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