Waukee City Council Approves Sprinkler Systems for Townhomes

Last night at its regular scheduled meeting, the Waukee City Council voted unanimously to approve sprinkler systems in newly-built townhouses in the city of Waukee.

The update means townhouses smaller than 12,000 square-feet would be required to have both a front and back exit. Townhouses without those would require a sprinkler system.

The city has been discussing a change in the Waukee city code for months. This particular update passed the first two readings in June and has undergone some alteration - most notably an increase from 6,000 square-feet to 12,000-square-feet.

Initially, members of the Des Moines Home Builders Association, believed requiring sprinkler systems in a townhouse would be too expensive. Waukee Fire Chief Clint Robinson said it isn't a cost issue - it's a safety issue.