IFC Fire Alarm Design Requirements for Different Occupancy Types

Seek the IFC and AHJ

If we take a look at the International Fire Code (better known as the IFC) section 907 we can find the different requirements for fire alarm design within each occupancy group.  Now keep in mind this information is only based on the International Fire Code and does not necessarily meet the requirements of your State and or City.  It is very important to check with your State's Fire Code such as the California Fire Code or CFC as well as your local authority having jurisdiction or AHJ.

Fire Alarm Codes and Standards

All of the above mentioned references are codes.  Codes will tell us when something is required.  A standard such the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code or NFPA 72 tells us how to install particular equipment.  A lot of people get confused since the name of the document has the word code in it.  Just remember the following:

International Fire Code and the International Building Code = "A When To Manual"
National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code = "A How To Manual"

Fire Alarm Requirements in Different Occupancy Groups

Fire alarm requirements for Group A occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group B occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group E occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group F occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group H occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group I-1 occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group I-2 occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group I-2.1 occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group I-3 occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group I-4 occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group M occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group R-1 occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group R-2 and R-2.1 occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group Licensed R-2.1 occupancies
Fire alarm requirements for Group R-4 occupancies