Sprinkler Requirements for Combustible Residential Balconies < 4-ft Overhang

[Haldorson]

Are sprinklers required?

NFPA 13 (2013), sentence 8.15.7.1 states that "sprinklers shall be installed under exterior projections exceeding 4-ft in width."

Note that NFPA 13 does not consider private balconies to contain storage. NFPA 13 notes "the committee has stated that combustibles, such as patio furniture, which may be wood or plastic and include cushions, are not sufficient to justify sprinkler protection for balconies that would not otherwise require sprinkler protection."

 

[cdafd]

Is this in the USA?

Do you also have a building code to design to??

IBC ?

IRC?

Other ?

Apartments or house or other?

 

[Haldorson]

It is a 4-storey wood frame residential development under the IBC.

 

[TravisMack]

This seems like the section where the building code is more restrictive in NFPA 13R systems. 903.3.1.2.1 requires sprinklers on balconies and decks of Type V construction.

There is no such provision under 903.3.1.1 so then you would just defer to the requirements in NFPA 13. If NFPA 13 states it is not req'd then you seem to be in the clear. We have so many jurisdictions that require them, it is rare to see them exempted.

Travis Mack, SET, CWBSP, RME-G, CFPS
MFP Design, LLC

http://www.mfpdesign.com