9.20.020 Where required.
In addition to the requirements of Section 907.2, an approved, monitored automatic fire alarm system shall be installed and maintained throughout all buildings, structures, floors, and suites described in this section. If conflicts exist between the IFC and this section, this section shall prevail. Fire alarm systems shall be installed per the applicable NFPA and SCF fire alarm standard. For the purposes of this section, spaces separated by fire walls, fire barriers, fire partitions and fire-resistance-rated horizontal assemblies noted in IBC Chapter 7 shall not be considered to be separate area(s) or building(s). Partial area fire alarm systems are prohibited.
Exception: Structures regulated by the International Residential Code.
A. In all new buildings and structures with a fire area of 3,000 or greater square feet, regardless of type or use.
B. In existing buildings or structures that undergo an addition or change of use where the new total fire area is 3,000 square feet or greater.
C. In existing building or structures when the value of all alterations or repairs performed within a 72-month period exceeds 50 percent of the assessed value of the building at the time of the first alteration, repair, modification, or similar improvement requiring a building permit, automatic fire alarm systems shall be installed throughout the building if one would otherwise be required for the building if of new construction. The value of the building shall be as listed by the Snohomish County assessor’s office or other acceptable method approved by the fire code official. Buildings not listed with an appraised value shall utilize an alternate method of valuation prescribed by the fire code official.
Exceptions: IRC building structures and Group U occupancies.
D. In existing buildings, structures, occupancies, or suites that undergo alterations, repair, or modification that have an existing fire alarm system that does not protect all areas and/or lacks adequate occupant notification devices shall have those protection features added at the time of tenant improvement.
E. In existing buildings, structures, occupancies, or suites that undergo an addition, alteration, repair, or modification that have fire sprinkler protection but lack a fire alarm system. (Ord. 3396 § 1, 2021; Ord. 3306 § 2 (Exh. 2), 2018; Ord. 3196 § 1, 2016; Ord. 3007 § 1, 2013)