Collierville, TN Building Safety: Fire Sprinkler Requirements (2026)

Section 91.21 of the Collierville Code of Ordinances is a local sprinkler mandate that goes beyond the model codes. Division (A) requires an approved automatic sprinkler system in the listed new or renovated buildings, and for residential occupancies it sorts them by type. Multi-family R-2 with three or more attached units up to four stories uses NFPA 13R, and more than four stories uses NFPA 13. A townhouse, defined as a single family dwelling in a group of three or more attached units extending from foundation to roof and not more than three stories, requires sprinklers in all buildings under NFPA 13D.

For one and two family dwellings, division (A)(5) sets three triggers. Sprinklers are required at 5,500 square feet or more of gross heated floor area, or for buildings or structures exceeding 2,000 square feet and set back more than 300 feet from a public road, both under NFPA 13D. Dead end streets can be no greater than 600 feet unless all homes on the street are protected with residential sprinklers, up to a maximum dead end length of 1,200 feet.

Division (C) defines MAJOR RENOVATION for this section as construction greater than 50% of the estimated cost of reconstruction of the entire structure. If the cost percentage is disputed, the owner or agent supplies a certified appraisal and a certified construction estimate to the Chief of the Fire Department or the Fire Marshal on request, and the appraisal excludes land cost, furnishings and decorations. Division (D) says an addition that pushes a building above the listed square footage triggers the requirement for the whole building, with an exception for one and two family dwellings.

Division (J) requires supervision of sprinkler systems by a central UL station connection, excluding R-3 one and two family dwellings. Division (H) places any required Fire Department connection on the front street side of the building, and division (I) requires a reliable water supply, meaning a fire hydrant, within 100 feet of the connection. Section 91.15(B)(4) keeps § 91.21 in place even where it conflicts with the International Fire Code, the International Building or Residential Code or NFPA, and Section 903.1 applies the most stringent standard where documents conflict. Appeals of fire code official decisions go to the Construction Board of Adjustment and Appeals under § 91.20.