The current Fire Code rules would require property owners to install sprinkler systems that could cost as much as $300,000 per homeowner and displace thousands of residents.
Fire safety matters. But this requirement is unnecessary and outrageously expensive, especially when:
- Some buildings cannot support sprinkler systems due to water supply or infrastructure limits.
- Some buildings pose low fire risk because they are constructed of reinforced concrete and other non-combustible materials.
- Many retrofits would cause severe financial hardship and resident displacement.
San Francisco’s sprinkler retrofit mandate is not required by state law, and other major cities apply more flexible standards to older buildings. This is an affordability issue. We can protect residents from fire and displacement at the same time.
That’s why we’re calling for a measured approach that would:
- Expand the proposed Technical Advisory Committee's mandate to examine the feasibility of the sprinkler retrofit mandate on impacted buildings and recommend full exemptions or more technically/financially feasible alternatives for implementation.
- Delay implementation and enforcement of the sprinkler retrofit mandate until the Technical Advisory Committee officially releases its findings.
We can improve fire safety in our City without displacing thousands of residents. Tell City Hall you support this measured approach by signing and sending the letter below: