A self-storage developer in Urbandale, Iowa, has asked city council members to amend the fire code so he wouldn’t be required to install a sprinkler system at a proposed site.
The developer, Eric VanderLinden, told city council members installing a dry system sprinkler at his proposed site would cost $300,000.
In 2007, the city code was changed, requiring sprinkler systems for self-storage buildings from 6,000 square feet to 12,000 square feet. The code is similar to that of neighboring cities including Ankeny, Des Moines, Waukee and Windsor Heights. Any facilities built before 2007 was not required to add a sprinkler system.
Urbandale Fire Chief Jerry Holt recommended the council leave the code as it stands. The fire chief expressed concern the department wouldn’t have the equipment or manpower to battle a fire in a facility of that size.
Several council members were open to discussing changing the code at a future city council meeting.
Source: Des Moines Register, Developer Asks Urbandale City Council to Amend Fire Code
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