Winnetka Offers Fire Sprinkler Rebate Program

In 1977, the Village of Winnetka passed an ordinance requiring any business or multifamily occupancy that has a “change of occupancy use” to retrofit a fire sprinkler system if it did not already have one.

In an effort to work with building owners and spur economic growth, the village amended the ordinance in 2016 to offer a rebate program for the fire sprinkler retrofits. The program aims to encourage retrofits in Winnetka’s three business districts, which have many buildings that are more than 100 years old.

The rebate program allows property owners to apply for reimbursement from the Community Development office for fees related to the fire sprinkler installation. Rebated fees include plan review, water tap, street replacement, and right-of- way openings. Another provision allows property owners to defer the installation of a new water service for up to five years.

For more information, visit Winnetka’s website at www.villageofwinnetka.org/180/Fire.