Fire Extinguisher requirements for condo buildings in Chicago

Unless your Association is both under three stories in height and has a total floor area of less than 3,000 square feet, your building must have portable fire extinguishers. (Very few condo buildings will have a total area of less than 3,000 square feet)

For most condo buildings, determining the number and type of fire extinguishers required to protect the common areas is fairly simple. Typically, you will need one, multi-purpose (ABC) dry chemical fire extinguisher on each floor of the building. The extinguisher would normally be installed in the hallway where it can be easily accessed by residents. NFPA 10 places a maximum travel distance of 75 feet (on the same floor) to the nearest fire extinguisher.

An extinguisher(s) will also be required in any basements and parking garages. The ultimate number of units required will be determined mainly based upon the size of the area.

In addition, extinguishers may be required in certain specialized areas such as elevator, electrical or pump rooms. Please note that it is not the Association's responsibility to provide fire extinguishers within the units. Coverage is limited to the common areas.

To determine if additional extinguishers are likely required at your property, refer to our Calculating Fire Extinguishers page.