This bill amends existing laws regarding fire safety requirements for residential buildings by exempting certain dwelling units from the mandate to install automatic sprinkler systems. Specifically, it modifies RSA 153:5, III, RSA 153:10-a, III, RSA 155-A:10, VI, and RSA 674:36, VI to state that the state fire code and associated regulations will not require automatic fire suppression or sprinkler systems in detached buildings with up to four dwelling units used solely for residential purposes. The previous language that specified "detached one, or 2-family dwelling units in a structure" has been replaced with the broader term "detached building with up to 4 dwelling units."

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the state fire marshal and the state building code review board cannot enforce rules requiring sprinkler systems in these specified residential buildings. It also allows for the possibility of other fire safety measures, such as cisterns or dry hydrants, to be mandated instead. The act applies to all new constructions, renovations, or conversions of such buildings after its effective date, and existing buildings without sprinkler systems will not be required to retrofit them. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 153:5, 153:10-a, 155-A:10, 674:36
HB1004 text: 153:5, 153:10-a, 155-A:10, 674:36