Florida Building Code Fire Protection Requirements

Automatic sprinkler systems are required in Florida for: all buildings with an occupied floor more than 55 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access; Assembly occupancies (A) with an occupant load of 300 or more; Educational occupancies (E) with an area over 12,000 sq ft; all high-rise buildings; and many other specific occupancies and conditions. Pineland Engineering evaluates sprinkler requirements for each project.

Fire-rated construction — walls, floors, and ceilings with a specific fire resistance rating — is required to separate different occupancies, protect exit enclosures, and limit the spread of fire. The required fire resistance rating depends on the occupancy, the building height, and the type of construction. Pineland Engineering designs fire-rated construction assemblies that meet FBC requirements and are practical to construct.

Fire alarm systems are required in Florida for: all buildings with an occupied floor more than 55 feet above grade, Assembly occupancies with an occupant load of 300 or more, Educational occupancies, and many other specific occupancies and conditions. Fire alarm systems must be designed by a licensed fire protection engineer and approved by the local fire marshal.