March 03, 2004

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Publication Date: Wednesday, March 03, 2004

Atherton OKs new fire sprinkler rules

By Andrea Gemmet

Almanac Staff Writer

The Atherton City Council gave final approval to new building regulations that require new homes and substantial remodels to install fire-suppression sprinkler systems. Owners adding basement living spaces will be required to install sprinklers throughout their homes.

The vote, taken at the February 18 council meeting, was 4-0, with Alan Carlson absent.

The Menlo Park Fire Protection District has been lobbying officials in the communities it serves to endorse the new regulations, which fire officials say will save lives and minimize fire damage.

The new rules are triggered by construction of a new home larger than 1,000 square feet, new basements larger than 250 square feet, and structural remodels exceeding 2,500 square feet.

Fire Chief Paul Wilson said the cost of installing the residential sprinkler systems ranges from $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot, and accidental activation is extremely rare, affecting only one in 16 million sprinkler heads.

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