What is the story behind the requirement for residential fire sprinkler systems?
The City of Loveland Fire Department requires the installation of residential fire sprinkler systems in subdivisions served by only one access where the dead end length is greater than 400’. In this project, the homes north of the mailboxes do NOT need sprinkler systems, but the homes south of the mailboxes DO need sprinkler systems. This requirement is not influenced by the water pressure, water flow rates, or proximity of fire hydrants, all of which are adequate within this project. The cost of a residential fire protection system is a function of the house size. A rule of thumb is that the sprinkler system will add approximately $2/sf to the home cost. A local contractor, Front Range Fire Protection, Inc., can be reached at (970) 663-3310 for additional cost and construction information. Residential fire sprinkler systems are activated by heat, not smoke. Consequently, there is no need to worry about activating them accidentally by stovetop or other smoke.
