OXNARD : Council Considers Fire Sprinkler Law
The Oxnard City Council is scheduled to consider an ordinance today that would require installation of automatic fire sprinklers in every new building and in every building undergoing major modifications.
The ordinance, proposed by Fire Chief Richard Smith, has won the support of the Oxnard Chamber of Commerce. Similar ordinances have been adopted in 37 other cities in California, including Napa, Anaheim, Burbank, Glendale and San Luis Obispo.
The ordinance affects commercial and residential buildings. Major modification is defined as an addition or alteration that exceeds 60% of the structure’s replacement cost.
Steven Maulhardt, spokesman for the Oxnard Chamber of Commerce, said that members of the chamber are planning to voice support for the ordinance when it comes before the council for review.
City law now requires automatic sprinklers only in structures with more than 5,000 square feet or that are taller than 35 feet.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
