Why are those who install fire sprinklers financially penalized by water utilities through “stand-by" fees, when such systems save the water utility money? The fact of the matter is the current system is patently unfair to building owners who have invested installed fire sprinklers, whether voluntarily or by code requirements. Fixed protection generally beats fire department response. Stand-by fees are based on the size of the meter: the larger the meter, the greater the property owner pays. This program proposes an alternative by suggesting a new system, providing for the equitable distribution of cost in accordance with demand.

Upon completion of this seminar, attendees will be able to:

• Identify the shortcomings of the current system of "stand-by" fees for water supply to fire sprinkler systems.    
• Compare the current system with a new concept, wherein all pay for fire protection water based on the fireflow demand of the structure and occupancy.