Commerce City council makes residential sprinklers optional after heated debate

Commerce City Council voted 5–3 on Nov. 17 to amend the municipal code so residential fire sprinklers are optional, not mandatory, for new single‑family detached homes and duplexes.

The ordinance that passed on second and final reading would allow builders to offer sprinklers as an upgrade paid for by the buyer rather than as a required part of the base home price. City staff said the change applies to single‑family detached homes and duplexes under the 2021 International Residential Code; other denser housing types remain subject to sprinkler requirements.

The decision followed nearly two hours of public comment and council discussion. Fire officials and sprinkler advocates warned that making sprinklers voluntary would sharply reduce installation rates. “Making them optional almost guarantees it will never be installed,” said Patrick Haney, regional coordinator for the National Fire Sprinkler Association, adding that sprinklers “brought the likelihood of getting out of your home and surviving by up to 87%.” Deputy fire officials and the South Adams County Fire prevention chief told council they view sprinklers as a growing trend and a vital life‑safety measure.

Builders and housing advocates pressed the council to consider cost and local affordability. Morgan Cullen of the Homebuilders Association of Metro Denver told the council that, combined with recent increases in local impact fees, fire sprinklers added roughly $15,000–$20,000 to the price of a new single‑family home and cited a packet line item of $20,722.09 in fee increases that have raised total building costs in Commerce City. Builder Dan Galasso said adding $20,000 “will force people into homes that are less expensive” and urged leaving the choice to consumers.

Council members framed the choice as a balance between safety and affordability. Councilmember Madera said the change preserves buyer choice and would require builders to offer sprinklers as an upgrade. Councilmember Teeter said he supported the amendment to help get people into homes, noting other safety measures such as smoke alarms. Opponents argued the policy reduces future safety standards and shifts risk to taxpayers and firefighters.

Staff provided limited quantitative data during the meeting: the director of community development said roughly 620 homes have been completed with sprinkler systems over the past three years and estimated 1,400–1,600 total inspections tied to those installations, and that plan‑review and inspection fees are charged per address. A staff representative said the water district would cooperate to ensure appropriate piping is available for new builds, but council members flagged gaps in the packet and asked for follow‑up information.

The ordinance passed 5–3. Supporters said it aligns Commerce City with most neighboring Denver‑area jurisdictions and eases a key cost factor for first‑time buyers; opponents said it reduces long‑term public safety standards. Council directed staff to continue evaluating implementation details and to ensure new builds retain the piping and infrastructure so sprinklers can be added if buyers later choose them.