New JerseyNew Jersey would require fire barriers in shared residential attics
Buildings with at least three stories and two homes would need fire barriers in shared attic spaces, with a separate deadline for permit applications on new buildings.
What it does
New covered buildings would need fire barriers in shared attic spaces for their construction permit applications to be complete. The barriers must resist fire for at least three hours and reach the roof.
Covered buildings would have to install fire barriers in shared attic spaces within 180 days after rules are adopted. Some buildings could receive inspections limited to checking this requirement.
Argument forFire barriers could slow a fire from spreading through shared attic spaces and give residents more protection between homes.
Argument againstBuilding owners may face costs to add barriers, and some buildings could also receive inspections limited to checking this requirement.
More detail
The state building code would require fire barriers in shared attic spaces, and permit applications could not be complete without providing for their installation. This covers buildings with at least three stories and two homes, in common lofts, attics, or cocklofts above the separations between neighboring homes. The barriers must resist fire for at least three hours and continue to or through the roof. This applies to new covered buildings whose permit applications are not declared complete on or before adoption of the related rules and code revisions.
Covered buildings would have to install fire barriers in shared attic spaces. This covers buildings with at least three stories and two homes, in common lofts, attics, or cocklofts above the separations between neighboring homes. The barriers must resist fire for at least three hours and continue to or through the roof. Buildings that are not classified as multiple dwellings may be inspected only to check compliance with this barrier requirement. The 180-day installation period begins when the rules are adopted.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed 1st Chamber
- Passed 2nd Chamber
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Oct 1Referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations CommitteeLatest
- Oct 1Reported from Senate Committee, 2nd ReadingMinor
- Jan 13Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs CommitteeIntroduced
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