Gurnee code update could mandate fire sprinklers in new homes

Gurnee's elected officials are considering a proposed building code update that would require the installation of fire sprinkler systems in all new residential construction.

Community Development Director David Ziegler told village trustees this week that the change would mirror the requirements of the 2012 International Building Codes.

Gurnee is working to update its building codes by April 18, officials said. Failure to do so could result in higher property insurance rates for residents.

The code last was updated in 2003, Ziegler said.

The existing code has mandated sprinklers only in subdivisions where driveways accommodate just one vehicle.

Ziegler said the typical cost of a sprinkler system is about $1.61 per square foot. That estimate led some village trustees to question whether they should support a sprinkler requirement for all new residential construction.

“I do not, myself, feel comfortable that we saddle the future residents with an extra cost to save $10 (on insurance) for current residents,” Trustee Steve Park said at a village board meeting Monday.

Meanwhile, the future appears in doubt for a proposal in the Illinois House that would block towns and counties from requiring fire sprinklers in homes. Ziegler told the village board he's been informed the proposal is “dead” in the House Rules Committee.