Horse Racing Fire Safety and Prevention Advisory Committee Approves First Set of Recommendations

The Horse Racing Fire Safety and Prevention Committee appointed by Supervisor Sarah Burger in early July, sent a letter recently containing its first set of recommendations to the New York State Gaming Commission relating specifically to the horse barn structures themselves (attached) that were approved at the September 14, 2026, committee meeting.

The recommendations include: (1) clarifying that the barns at racetracks are used for a commercial purpose and not subject to an agricultural exemption just because the structures house horses; (2) mandating fire resistive treatment to barn structures built after 1890; (3) requiring that fire barriers be installed in barn structures larger than 5500 sq ft. and (4) requiring fire suppression such as automatic sprinkler protection or an alternative fire protection system such as water mist.

“I’m proud to report that the committee has reached a significant milestone in its work. These recommendations represent a set of best practices that the group felt can be implemented across all racetracks.” said Supervisor Burger

“The recommendations are primarily based upon proven building safety standards, as well as past fire performance and established testing protocols.” Said Tracy Kozak, AIA who took the lead on discussions for the committee.

In the coming weeks the committee will make additional sets of recommendations related to: (1) combustibles inside the barns (2) fire response and planning and (3) education and training. In total there will be 4 sets of recommendations.