Title
Residential Fire Sprinkler Update
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive a briefing on residential sprinkler ordinance and recent administrative decisions to minimize cost(s) for construction of housing. Briefing only. No action requested
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive a briefing on residential sprinkler ordinance and recent administrative decisions to minimize cost(s) for construction of housing.
Staff Contact:
Kevin Bossard, Assistant Chief / Fire Marshal, Olympia Fire Department, 360-688-8222
Presenter(s):
Kevin Bossard, Assistant Chief / Fire Marshal, Olympia Fire Department
Background and Analysis:
Olympia's residential sprinkler ordinance was enacted July 1, 2014. There have been approximately 650 residential sprinkler systems installed since then. The current average cost for a residential sprinkler system is approximately $250.00 per sprinkler head or $3.50 per square foot. Recent administrative decisions have reduced cost of installation. These include:
1) Removal of a requirement for an item that in effect reduced the cost of a sprinkler system by approximately $1,000.00.
2) Approval of an alternative method (instead of installing sprinklers) for conversion of a finished basement to an accessory dwelling unit or conversion of a pre-existing garage to ADU.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The entire community is interested in life safety and property protection. Some members of the community have raised concerns regarding the cost and function of residential fire sprinkler requirements, particularly related to ADU development costs.
Options:
1. Discuss information presented and take no action.
2. Discuss information presented and direct to staff to further research additional issues.
Financial Impact:
Cost to administer the residential fire sprinkler ordinance is covered by the City's adopted budget, primarily through permit and inspection fees...
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