By Kaylyn Lucas, Deputy Fire Marshal
Fall is among us again. The season that brings cooler weather and pumpkin spiced flavored everything. Speaking of pumpkins, it is also ‘Spooky Season,’ which means haunted houses for the scares.
Haunted houses are considered special amusement areas under the building and fire codes. If a building is not being used as originally intended, it may be considered non-compliant with the adopted fire codes. Under the State of North Dakota Fire Code, special amusement areas, temporary or permanent, are required to have automatic sprinkler systems and fire alarm systems. Automatic sprinkler systems are not required where the amusement area's total square footage is less than 1000’. Special amusement areas should also meet minimum code requirements for ignition source clearances, emergency planning and evacuation, building services and systems, interior finishes, fire extinguishers, and means of egress. If the International Fire Code is not being met with a change of use, the International Building Code is applicable, specifically 411.6 – Exit Marking.
Under temporary use of a building not designed for special amusement, like a haunted house, where a system is out of service, a fire watch should be considered and account for all the following applicable fire codes:
Chapter 3 – General Requirements
- Clearance between ignition sources, such as luminaires, heaters, flame-producing devices and combustible materials shall be maintained.
- Open flames, such as candles and kerosene lanterns should be prohibited within special amusement areas
Chapter 4 – Emergency Planning
- Required fire watch personnel and duties.
- Evacuation plan and public safety plan for gatherings
Chapter 6 – Building Services and Systems
- Abatement of unsafe electrical conditions within the structure.
- Proper use of relocatable power taps and extension cords.
Chapter 8 – Interior Finishes
- No furnishings or objects are to be placed in a way that obstructs exits or access to exits.
- All curtains, draperies, fabric hangings, and other similar combustible materials suspended from walls or ceilings are to comply with NFPA 701 or NFPA 289 testing.
- Fixed or moveable walls or partitions or paneling are to comply with NFPA 286, ASTM E84 or UL 723.
Chapter 9 – Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
- Portable fire extinguishers are to be installed and maintained on every level and within 75 feet of travel.
- Interconnected smoke alarms should be installed throughout the special amusement area for occupant notification of a fire.
Chapter 10 – Means of Egress
- Means of egress shall be illuminated.
- All exits should be properly labeled and visible to the occupants.
- Exits should not be blocked or obstructed and distinguishable as exit doors.
Chapter 31 – Tents, Special Event Structures, and Other Membrane Structures
- Special event structures are to be inspected, and all deficiencies are to be corrected.
Any alternative or change of use for an existing structure temporarily being used for a haunted house should be accepted and reviewed by the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Contact our office if you have any questions or need assistance.
Hope everyone has a safe and ‘spooktacular’ fall season!