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Fire & Life Safety

Sprinkler

Sprinkler System — Inspection & Testing (NFPA 25 + 5-yr FDC)

Sprinkler systems require routine NFPA 25 inspection/testing plus a 5-year Fire Department Connection (FDC) hydrostatic test that is FDNY-witnessed under 3 RCNY 912-01.

Who is covered

Any building with a sprinkler system; the 5-year FDC test applies where there is a Fire Department Connection.

What the law requires

  • Maintain the NFPA 25 inspection/test schedule with a qualified sprinkler contractor.
  • Track the 5-year FDC hydrostatic test separately — it is FDNY-witnessed, distinct from the annual inspection.
  • Correct impairments immediately and log them; out-of-service systems require FDNY notification/fire watch.

Filing frequency and deadlines

Penalty structure

Non-compliance with Sprinkler can result in the following penalties:

  • FDNY violation for an impaired or untested sprinkler system.

Exemptions

  • Buildings with no sprinkler system.

Recent updates and amendments

Commonly misstated: 3 RCNY 912-01 is a 5-year FDC test, not an annual test — they are separate obligations.

Reference

NYC Fire Code §903; 3 RCNY 912-01; NFPA 25FDNY Bureau of Fire Prevention

Official source: 3 RCNY 912-01 — Periodic Testing

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