Senate approves ban on sprinklers in some single‑family homes after safety debate

The Senate passed Senate File 24‑39, which requires the state building code commissioner to adopt a prohibition on installation of fire‑sprinkler systems in specified single‑family residences under the bill’s thresholds. Sponsor Senator Webster explained that the bill clarifies size limits and exceptions after consultations with fire marshals; amendment 50‑46 was adopted to specify thresholds for detached single‑family dwellings (prohibiting sprinklers under 6,500 square feet in detached single‑family homes per the amendment text).

Senator Townsend opposed the bill on safety grounds, saying sprinklers typically operate locally and can extinguish fires before responders arrive. "What price tag do we put on someone's life if they get killed?" he asked, urging a no vote. He said firewalls and other measures can fail over time, making sprinklers a critical safety backup.

Senator Webster countered that sprinkler systems carry maintenance costs and freezing risks and that properly installed firewalls can provide effective protection in many cases. He argued the bill is another step toward housing affordability and said maintenance burdens and potential water damage are concerns for homeowners.

The amendment was adopted and the bill was read for final passage. The roll call reported in the transcript reads 30 ayes and 14 nays; the bill was declared passed and the title agreed to. The measure was then ordered messaged to the other chamber by unanimous consent.

Why it matters: The bill changes the statewide standard for when sprinkler systems are required, affecting builders, homeowners and local fire safety considerations.

What happens next: The Senate recorded passage and ordered the bill messaged to the House; implementation details (rulemaking by the state building code commissioner) were not discussed on the floor during this session.