New multifamily construction in Wisconsin will eventually meet international standards on sprinklers. Approval by a legislative committee means the state will conform to more demanding standards for sprinklers. After March 1st, 2008, all residential buildings with more than eight units must have sprinklers. After January 1st, 2011, the requirement will include buildings with three or more units, according to Department of Commerce spokesman, Tony Hozeny. The old state standard required sprinklers in buildings with more than 20 residential units. The new standards are not retroactive — they deal only with new construction.