Rhode Island Fire Code Background Information

On February 20, 2003, a fire at The Station nightclub in West Warwick, Rhode Island, claimed the lives of 100 people and injured 200 others. As a result of this tragedy, Rhode Island Governor Donald Carcieri appointed a special commission to study the state's fire code and to make recommendations that would update and improve this code.

     Based on the commission's recommendations, the Rhode Island General Assembly passed a revised state fire code that is considered to be the most stringent in the nation. An important component of the new legislation removes the "grandfather" clause effective February 20, 2004.

     The law mandates sprinkler systems be installed in establishments that serve alcohol and have occupancy capacities of at least 150 people by July 2006. Other places of assembly with occupancy capacities of 300 or more people must install sprinkler systems by July 2005. Additionally, some businesses will be required to upgrade smoke detectors and fire alarms, and replace exit signs to comply with the new fire code regulations.

     The Comprehensive Fire Safety Act of 2003 was signed into law by Governor Carcieri on July 7, 2003.

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