Can an Old 3-family be Subject to New Zoning Laws?

[Michael G.]

Hello all,

I'm currently in the process of purchasing a home through a foreclosure sale. The property appears to be a 3-family and is an all brick, late 1800's construction.

I was wondering - upon completing this transaction, will the city require me to conform to the current zoning requirements for 3-family properties? Some of the newer standards in this city require 3-family properties to have a certain lot size (>3,000sqft), exit signs, and a sprinkler system!!!! 

My question to you all is: can the city really require me to retro-fit a sprinkler system on a building that is approximately 150 years old? Lets say the fire escape needs repairing or replacing - wouldn't it be more logical for me to repair/refurbish/replace that system (which was once acceptable) vs. the latter?

PS: There is a fire escape in the back side of the building which is accessible to all three units.