Knoxville City Code Chapter 6 adopts the Tennessee state building and fire codes, requiring automatic sprinkler systems in most new commercial and multi-family buildings above defined thresholds, with KFD reviewing plans and inspecting installations.
Knoxville enforces sprinkler requirements through Chapter 6 of the City Code, which adopts the Tennessee statewide Building Code and International Fire Code. New commercial buildings above defined size and occupancy thresholds, multi-family residential projects above three stories or specified unit counts, and certain assembly and institutional uses must include NFPA 13 or 13R automatic sprinklers. Single-family homes are generally not required to retrofit, although new high-end and large custom homes may trigger sprinkler review. Knoxville Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau and Plans Review Section coordinate with the city Plans Review division for permits and final acceptance testing.
Building without required sprinklers, bypassing systems, or failing to maintain monitoring and inspection schedules can trigger stop-work orders, occupancy denial, civil penalties, and liability after a fire incident.
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