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Oct 04

[ARCHIVED] International Building Code Updates - Fire Sprinklers

The original item was published from September 12, 2018 12:06 PM to January 1, 2020 12:00 AM

Update - Oct. 4
The City Council did approve updating five different building codes to the 2015 international standards Oct. 1. However, the proposed fire sprinkler provision for newly constructed homes will not be required in Geneva.

Before taking the vote, aldermen decided to remove the fire sprinkler language from the code update.

The meeting video is available to watch on YouTube.

Original Post - Sept. 12
As part of a strategic planning process, the City has been exploring updating five different building codes to the 2015 international standards. Geneva aldermen reviewed the proposals at the Aug. 27 Committee of the Whole meeting that included some local amendments recommended by City staff. The meeting video also is available to watch on YouTube.

The City has been using the 2006 International Residential Code (IRC). The provision that newly-constructed homes be equipped with fire sprinklers was introduced in the 2009 IRC and has been included in the 2012 and 2015 editions.

A proposed local amendment would delay the sprinkler requirement in Geneva until 2020. This would provide developments underway an opportunity to finish construction as planned and provide builders in the future time to plan and budget for sprinkler systems. This also is consistent with the implementation date established in neighboring communities, who also are considering the same code updates.

The proposed building code documents are now available for public inspection until Oct. 1, when the City Council is scheduled to resume discussion and potentially vote on adopting the new regulations and local amendments.

The City also has developed an FAQs document to help answer questions from builders, residents and other community stakeholders. Questions can be directed to the City's Building Division by calling 630-262-0280.