The 2009 International Building Code requires automatic sprinkler systems for a variety of reasons. One of the places that we commonly see a sprinkler required is in assembly spaces.
In Groups A-1, A-3 and A-4; assembly areas over 12,000 sf or with more than 300 occupants require an automatic sprinkler. In Groups A-2 that requirement occurs at 100 occupants or 5,000 sf. If any of these assembly areas are on floors that don’t have direct exit discharge, they’ll require sprinklers regardless of size or number of occupants.
In Group A-5 an automatic sprinkler is required in concession stands, retail areas, press boxes and other accessory use areas in excess of 1,000 sf.
