Key points:
- Key changes to smoke control fire codes in Denver 2026.
- What is included in the Rational Analysis report.
- Unique considerations for smoke control strategies in Colorado.
As of 2026, smoke control systems in Denver are no longer one-size-fits-all. The updated fire codes improve safety while allowing for innovative modern design. It also supports historic preservation. Understanding your new obligations is required for obtaining your initial Occupancy Certificate or Change of Occupancy. Understanding your new system specs is crucial for understanding fire watch protocols when systems are down.
New fire code updates went into effect in Denver on December 31, 2025. Some of the most significant changes are to Section 909, Smoke Control Systems. The changes shift from standardized systems per building size, type, and occupancy, to tailored systems. System specs are set forth after the completion of a Rational Analysis, a mandatory report completed by a Fire Protection Engineer (FPE) for all new construction, HVAC updates, and major renovation projects.
What Makes Smoke Control Unique in Denver?
Many cities around the country are shifting to Performance-Based Analysis, as standardized systems don’t provide the level of safety for a 4-story building versus a high-rise, a glass tower vs. a brick building, new construction vs. historic renovations, or closed-designed versus an open atrium. In addition to these considerations, the Mile-High City has a few unique considerations for smoke control and life safety systems.
Altitude and Atmospheric Pressure
Air is thinner at 5,280 feet. Standardized HVAC fans can’t circulate thinner air as efficiently. The new protocols require fans that can effectively circulate air volume to local atmospheric pressure.
Winter “Stack Effect”
When winter temperatures drop to 50 degrees or lower than the inside temperature, it creates a pressure imbalance. This imbalance is referred to as the “stack effect” or “chimney effect”. During a fire, smoke gets sucked upward through elevator shafts and stairwells. The pressure created impedes exit routes by making it difficult to open doors.
What’s Included in The Rational Analysis
Before you begin building, a Fire Protection Engineer (FPE) must complete a Rational Analysis report that includes.
- Tenability Modeling: Utilize CONTAM and/or CFD/FDS simulation software to analyze how smoke travels through your stairwells, atrium, and building.
- Pressure Differentials: Calculate how to keep stairwell pressure high enough to keep smoke out, and low enough that a child can effortlessly open the door during evacuation.
- Sequence of Operations: Provide a detailed logic map to outline the sequence of events that occur when a detector trips. This includes which fans turn on, dampers close, elevators recall, etc.
Read More:
- Emergency Fire Watch in Downtown Denver
- 5 Times to Staff Fire Guards, Even When They Aren’t Required
- Why Dispatch Dual-Trained Fire Watch Security Guards
- How Fire Watch Differs in Denver’s Historic Buildings
- EV Charging Station Fire Watch Protocols in Denver
Which Smoke Controls Systems Are Grandfathered into the Previous Fire Code?
Every fire code update is unique, but the new Smoke Control Systems apply primarily to new construction. The updates grandfather existing construction into the previous fire safety standards. If a trigger event occurs, the new code applies.
- Change of Occupancy: If you change your occupancy type, you’ll need to comply with new codes. With an increase in converting office spaces into residential spaces, the cost of compliance must be factored in.
- HVAC or Fire Alarm System Upgrades: If you decide to upgrade either or both your HVAC or fire alarm system, the first step is to complete a Rational Analysis to ensure the new systems comply with updated safety standards.
- Major Renovations: If the scope of your work exceeds a threshold set forth by the DFD, you may need to meet the new standards. Also, consider what other fire codes you may need to comply with, such as installing Automatic Sprinkler systems.
Fire Watch During System Upgrades in Denver and COS
Even if your building is vacant, you’ll need to dispatch fire watch during construction hot work and fire safety system upgrades.
Reach out to Scout Security to dispatch trained and certified fire guards any time the need arises. We can preschedule fire monitoring and are on call for a 24/7 emergency fire watch.
