Solar Array Fire Access Code
I just wanted to post something that I just went through to hopefully save others time in there builds. (I searched here for up to date info but didn’t find any. )
In New Hampshire (as well as other states, some with some differences) the 36″ clear roof path firefighter access rules have been lifted/eased. In NH you can now install full roof covering arrays on south facing planes if you have an equal amount of north facing roof with good access for firefighters. Details can be found in the link below.
Also there are many other routes to avoid what seems like excessive restrictions on PV placement. those options are also listed below.
https://www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/firesafety/bulletins/documents/IB2020-01SolarInstallations.pdf
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Thanks for posting, the setbacks sure steal away space, was looking at thin film on a standing seam metal roof and the solar installer indicated setbacks. Not sure if the code should consider differences between panels and thin film for fire - also for mass.
Ya when I first heard about these changes (2018 I think) I thought this would be a major disruption to the progress of PV. Turns out it was. Seems like "the system" actually worked this time and a well informed balance was reached.