HomeMy WebLinkAboutIndustry Bulletin 2024-001 Fire Sprinkler Requirements in Structured Media
BILLY P. ALCORN
FIRE CHIEF
Theodore F. Semonious, Fire Deputy Chief/Fire Marshal
Fire Prevention and Investigations Division
(559) 621-4181 FAX (559) 457-1279
Fresno Fire Department 911 H Street Fresno, CA 93721-3082
FIRE INDUSTRY BULLETIN 2024-001
SCOPE
Installation of structured media enclosures and similar appurtenances in unsprinklered
closets, within one-and two-family dwellings, protected by NFPA 13D fire sprinkler
systems.
PURPOSE
The purpose of this industry bulletin is to notify affected stakeholders of the applicable fire
sprinkler requirements when structured media enclosures and similar appurtenances are
proposed to be installed in one-and two-family dwellings protected by NFPA 13D fire
sprinkler systems.
BACKGROUND
As noted in the California Fire Code (CFC), the fire code official has the authority to
render interpretations and formulate policies they deem necessary based upon local
conditions related to fire protection systems.
A recent trend in one-and two-family dwelling construction has been the inclusion of
structured media enclosures and similar appurtenances in unsprinklered closets, within
one-and two-family dwellings, protected by NFPA 13D fire sprinkler systems. In many
cases, these enclosures have been installed without consultation with the fire authority
prior to installation, or coordination with the fire sprinkler installer, both of which have
caused unnecessary delay in system installation and project completion.
As noted in the 2016 (previously adopted), 2022 (currently adopted), and 2025 (future
adoption) editions of NFPA 13D Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One-
and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes, various sections within Chapter 8
indicate that fire sprinklers are to be installed in clothes closets, linen closets, and
pantries, unless those spaces meet certain, exemption conditions.
The commentary denoting the conditions which exempt installation of fire sprinklers are
clear that the primary reason for the exception is because of the size of the space.
“To protect and put service above all else.”
Fire Industry Bulletin 2024-001
July 9, 2024
Page 2
However, the commentary also notes that once the closet contains other equipment, it is
no longer a closet. Additionally, one of the conditions providing an exception to the fire
sprinkler requirement also notes that the space must have walls and ceilings which are
surfaced with noncombustible or limited-combustible materials as defined in NFPA 220.
INFORMATION
Unsprinklered closets with these appurtenances located within them no longer meet the
definition of a closet. These installations also create areas for smoke and fire to pass into
and within a wall cavity since the appurtenance bears no fire resistance rating and
typically does not seal combustible construction from the space.
The introduction of electricity in many of these spaces to power devices within them also
creates an increased risk for resistance heating, etc. to go unnoticed.
Based on the items noted above the Fresno Fire Department (FFD or Department) will
require fire sprinklers to be installed in all closets in which a structured media enclosure
or other similar appurtenance is installed.
NOTE
Existing installations which may contain these products and are thus non-compliant with
the applicable code requirements should be addressed between the permit applicant, the
installing contractor of the product(s), and other associated parties as applicable. These
issues are civil in nature and are not within the purview of FFD to adjudicate.
This bulletin is effective July 9, 2024.