Under the Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR), NFPA 13/13R, and Boston Code Ch. 9, automatic sprinklers are required in most new buildings four or more stories, larger residences, and substantial renovations.
Boston applies the Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR), tenth edition, which adopts the International Building Code with state amendments. Automatic sprinklers are required in all new R-2 buildings four or more stories or with more than twelve dwelling units, all R-1 hotels and lodging houses, and most assembly, business, and high-hazard occupancies. Boston Code Ch. 9 reinforces installation, testing, and inspection by ISD and BFD. Existing buildings undergoing substantial renovation, change of use, or vertical addition must trigger sprinkler retrofit under 780 CMR Ch. 34 (existing structures). NFPA 13 (full systems), 13R (mid-rise residential), and 13D (one- and two-family dwellings) define design.
Operating an occupancy without required sprinklers triggers ISD and BFD orders to vacate or retrofit, plus fines under 780 CMR enforcement and Ch. 9, escalating with continued occupancy.
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