Seattle SMC 22.601 (Building Code) plus IRC R313 require automatic fire sprinklers in all new multifamily buildings, townhomes, and most new single-family residences with conditioned area or fire-flow shortfalls. Retrofit triggers exist.
Seattle adopts the IBC and IRC with amendments in SMC 22.601. Under IRC R313 and Seattle amendments, all new one- and two-family dwellings must include an NFPA 13D sprinkler system; townhouses follow R313.1. New apartment buildings (R-2) require NFPA 13 or 13R systems depending on height. Existing multifamily renovations exceeding 50% replacement value must add sprinklers. High-rises over 75 feet require full NFPA 13. Single-family additions over 500 sq ft can trigger sprinklers if water-supply fire-flow is inadequate. SDCI permit review and Seattle Fire plan review run in parallel. Annual inspections by licensed contractors are required.
Building without required sprinklers: stop-work, denial of CO, civil penalties under SMC 22.601 up to $500 per day plus mandatory retrofit. Tampering with sprinklers is a misdemeanor.
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