Buffalo Code Chapter 113 and the New York State Building and Fire Codes require automatic sprinklers in most new multifamily, assembly, and high-rise buildings; one and two family homes are exempt unless voluntarily protected and properly inspected by BFD.
Buffalo follows the New York State Uniform Code at 19 NYCRR which adopts International Building Code sprinkler thresholds. Apartment buildings with three or more dwelling units typically require NFPA 13R systems, while assembly occupancies above one hundred occupants and most healthcare and educational facilities require NFPA 13. New York Multiple Dwelling Law Section 67 governs upgrades for existing taller buildings. One and two family homes are not mandated to install sprinklers under New York law due to a 2009 statewide policy preempting local mandates. BFD inspects all systems, witnesses annual flow tests, and enforces backflow protection through the Buffalo Water Authority.
Stop-work orders, certificate-of-occupancy denial, BFD violations under Chapter 318, and civil penalties under New York Executive Law Section 382 for state code breaches.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Buffalo, NY
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