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IBC 903.2.1 — Group A Occupancies (Sprinkler Requirements)

Updated Mar 24, 2026

Automatic sprinkler system required throughout buildings with Group A occupancy where fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet, or overall building area exceeds 12,000 square feet, or occupant load of the fire area exceeds 300.

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group A occupancy where one of the following conditions exists: (1) The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet. (2) The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more. (3) The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies. (4) The fire area contains a multitheater complex. For Group A-1 occupancies, sprinklers are required where the fire area exceeds 12,000 sf regardless of occupant load. Amendments: Los Angeles enforces at 3,000 sf for A-2 occupancies. NYC requires sprinklers in all A occupancies regardless of size.

TAGS

fire-protection sprinkler group-a assembly ibc-chapter-9

DETAILS

chapter

9 - Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems

severity

life_safety

code year

2024

code system

IBC

building types

["commercial_office","restaurant","theater","church","arena"]

section number

903.2.1

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