903.2.11.7 Buildings larger than 12,000 square feet. Automatic fire extinguishing systems shall be installed and maintained in operable condition in all buildings containing a floor area of over 12,000 square feet, or which are more than 36 feet in height above grade.

Exceptions:

1. Each portion of a building separated by fire walls constructed in accordance with International Building Code Table 706.4 may be considered separate buildings for the purposes of fire sprinkler requirements provided there are no openings in the fire walls that could reduce the fire-resistance rating of the separation.

2. This amendatory ordinance shall not apply to a building or portions of a building used only for open parking garages as these are defined and regulated in Section 406.3 of the International Building Code and IFC Section 903.2.10.

3. Automatic fire extinguishing systems may be omitted from areas over swimming pools, tennis courts and other such areas when authorized by the building official and the fire code official consistent with this chapter.