Sprinkler Mandate Now in Effect: Controversy Moving Forward

Updated: 01/26/2015 2:29 PM Created: 01/25/2015 1:01 PM KSTP.com By: Brandi Powell

A new state law is now in effect.

Builders are required to put sprinklers in all new homes, 4,500 square feet or larger.

Looking ahead, the controversy surrounding this issue continues.

Firefighters are in favor of putting these sprinklers in new, large homes, but builders say the sprinklers are only going to make things tough for them and homebuyers.

Local fire chiefs have pushed state lawmakers, to require sprinkler installation in large, newly-constructed houses.

"The house was not equipped with a residential fire sprinkler system, which contributed very dramatically to the loss," said Eden Prairie Fire Chief George Esbensen, on Nov. 7, 2014.

"One thing that would have helped this house is fire sprinklers," said James Van Eyll, Long Lake Fire Chief, on Dec. 31. He added, "This house would have probably been standing with minimal damage if it had a fire suppression system."

On Oct. 6, St. Paul's Fire Chief Tim Butler said, "I'll take water damage at my house any day than having my house burn to the ground or my kids die in a fire."

Long-term State Fire Marshal stats show Minnesotans are doing better with fire safety.

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Sprinkler Mandate Now in Effect: Controversy Moving Forward