A bill for an act relating to fire protection sprinkler systems in certain residential properties.(Formerly SSB 1094; See SF 2439.)
Summary
SF 310 would amend Iowa law to prohibit the state building code commissioner from requiring fire protection sprinkler systems in certain attached single-family residential buildings. Specifically, the bill applies to series of attached single-family residences with fewer than seven units, and it directs the commissioner to adopt this prohibition as part of the state building code.
The bill also bars local building regulations from imposing a sprinkler requirement on those same smaller attached residential developments. In practical terms, it creates a statewide floor that prevents both state code and local ordinances from mandating sprinklers in these smaller multi-unit attached homes, such as certain townhomes or rowhouse-style developments.
Impact
The bill would add a new section to Iowa Code chapter 103A governing fire protection sprinkler systems and would limit regulatory authority at both the state and local levels. It would preempt local building codes and ordinances that otherwise might require sprinklers in attached single-family housing projects with fewer than seven units, reducing compliance obligations for developers and property owners in that category.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests the bill had generally favorable support in committee, passing the Senate Local Government report by a 9-2 vote. No committee transcript is available, but the committee action and subsequent renumbering indicate the proposal advanced with meaningful support, though not unanimous agreement.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely the balance between fire safety and housing construction costs or regulatory flexibility. Supporters would favor reducing mandated sprinkler installation costs and avoiding local variation in code requirements for smaller attached housing, while opponents may be concerned that removing sprinkler mandates could reduce fire protection in multi-unit residential buildings. The 9-2 committee vote suggests some members remained concerned about safety or local control, even as the measure moved forward.