In an email early Thursday morning, the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) announced Minnesota Rule 1309.0313, which removes the sprinkler mandate from twin homes, goes effect Monday, June 5.
Rule 1309.0313 follows legislation directing DLI to align the states building code to reflect the Minnesota Court of Appeals’ directive in BATC v. DLI, where the sprinkler mandate in one and two-family homes was struck down.
The message from DLI says:
“Effective on Monday, June 5, 2017, Minnesota Rule 1309.0313 will be amended and published in the State Register to establish that neither one- and two-family dwellings, nor two-unit townhouses, are required to have automatic fire sprinkler systems installed under Minnesota’s Residential Building Code.”
Legislation removing sprinklers in twin homes, which Governor Mark Dayton signed on May 2, was authored by Representative Tama Theis (R-St. Cloud) and Senator Rich Draheim (R-Madison Lake).
A stay was issued on May 2, 2017, stating unless otherwise required by law, sprinklers are no longer required in twin homes.
Those building twin homes and are early in the construction process, where sprinklers are not yet installed, should consult their local building officials to see if the mandate still applies. DLI has instructed local officials to use their discretion for permitted buildings not yet completed.
Related Documents:
- Final draft language Minnesota Rule Part 1309.0313
- Guidance to building officials
- DLI Commissioner Ken Peterson letter on the technical fix
