Sprinkler Systems and Freezing Temperatures

As temperatures are dropping to near-record lows this week across North Carolina, fire marshals have asked us to remind our members about the risks of draining, shutting down, or disabling fire sprinkler systems due to cold weather, even when those systems have not sustained damage. 

Under the North Carolina Fire Code and State Building Code, fire sprinkler systems are required to remain operable at all times, except when repairs are actively underway and proper impairment procedures are followed. Cold weather alone is not a valid reason to drain or shut down an intact sprinkler system. Freezing risks must be addressed through proper heating, insulation, and maintenance—not by removing required fire protection.

If a sprinkler system must be taken out of service due to actual damage, repairs, or an emergency condition, immediate notification to the local fire marshal or fire code official is required. The Fire Code also requires coordination with the fire department or alarm monitoring company, notification of insurers where applicable, and documentation of the impairment. Systems must be restored to service as quickly as possible.

NFPA 25 applies whenever a sprinkler system is impaired and requires formal procedures, including designating an impairment coordinator, limiting the scope and duration of the shutdown, providing approved temporary protection such as a fire watch, and verifying testing and restoration before the system is returned to service.

Additionally, most insurance policies require sprinkler systems to remain in service and insurers to be notified of any impairment in order to avoid denied claims or reduced coverage if a fire occurs.

Fire marshals strongly urge properties not to drain or shut off sprinkler systems due to cold weather. If you have concerns about freeze protection or believe a shutdown is unavoidable, it is always a good idea to contact your local fire marshal’s office before taking action.

This communication is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, insurance, or code compliance advice. Property owners and operators should consult their local fire marshal, licensed fire protection professionals, insurers, and legal counsel as appropriate regarding their specific circumstances.