Sprinkler Systems

Rumours - It appears the old addage "If you haven't heard a rumour by 10:00 am, start one" is true as is the case of sprinkler systems. The rumour going around the community is that the fire department has introduced a bylaw requiring sprinkler systems in all single family dwellings and duplexs. Let me clarify by saying that this is not true. While I am a huge supporter of residential sprinkler systems, I have not proposeed any such requirement. I believe the misconception comes from the new OCP (Official Community Plan) that states that all buildings within the new "TOWN CENTRE" zoning require a sprinkler system be installed. This part is true, however if you were to read the Town Centre Plan http://www.sooke.ca/assets/Local~Government/Planning/Town%20Centre%20Plan%20Adopted.pdf, you would find that the only buildings permitted in this zone are large, multi-family or commercial buildings. Most will have zero lot line coverage which means that they can be built right next to each other. If a fire were to start in one of these new buildings and spread to another, the potential for a catastrophic fire is a real possibility. Single Family Homes and Duplexs are NOT PERMITTED in this zone. (This zone covers roughly from the new Mariners Development at Church Rd to Murray Rd and along the length of Sooke Rd down to the water - yes, only the water side of Sooke Rd) This is the only area that this zone applies. The requirement is NOT retroactive either. If you already own a home in this area or plan to put on an addition, the sprinkler requirement does not apply. The only time this well be put into effect is when someone comes in with a proposal to redevelop land to suit the new Town Centre Plan. The only other time we SUGGEST sprinkler systems is when a development proposal is made in an area where the existing water system is insufficient for the size of the building being proposed. So, if you hear this rumour while you are out and about, please take a moment to clarify the points. Thanks.