Arlington requires fire sprinkler systems in most new commercial buildings, multifamily structures, and certain large single-family homes under the locally adopted International Fire Code. Existing buildings undergoing major remodels may also need retrofits.
Arlington has adopted the International Building Code and International Fire Code through Chapter 10 of the City Code, with local amendments addressing sprinkler thresholds. Commercial occupancies generally require NFPA 13 systems beyond size and occupancy thresholds defined in the IBC, while apartments and townhomes typically need NFPA 13R systems. Single-family homes above defined floor-area thresholds or with limited fire-department access may also require NFPA 13D residential sprinklers. The Arlington Fire Department Fire Marshals Office reviews plans, witnesses acceptance tests, and inspects systems during annual occupancy walkthroughs to verify maintenance certifications remain current.
Operating a building without a required sprinkler system is a fire code violation with fines up to 2,000 dollars per day and possible certificate-of-occupancy revocation by the city.
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See how other cities in Tarrant County handle fire sprinkler requirements.
See how Arlington's fire sprinkler requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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