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Title:
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Fire Code Amendment Change (Ordinance G-7242)
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Title
Fire Code Amendment Change (Ordinance G-7242)
Description
Request to approve revisions to the Fire Prevention Code of the City of Phoenix. These revisions will update and correct existing regulations, simplify the permitting process, and adjust fees associated with implementing renewable energy systems.
Report
Summary
The City of Phoenix adopted the 2018 International Fire Code in 2019. Since then, the Fire Code has been revised to ensure its continual relevance and modernization for requirements and protective measures. The Fire Code is the foundation of the Fire Department's ability to safeguard and mitigate risks for our community and first responders. Beyond the Fire Code's primary role, the code is pivotal in supporting and fostering growth within our community. As community risk profiles change, the Fire Code must evolve to remain relevant to the best practices in community risk reduction.
The Fire Department uses a standard process to assess the need for amendments to the Fire Code that focuses on openness, transparency, balancing interests, and building partnerships. The proposed amendment packet results from extensive stakeholder feedback and alignment with the Fire Department's goals and mission. The Fire Safety Advisory Board, which serves on behalf of the City Council as an advisory board for matters relating to Fire Prevention, voted unanimously in favor of this amendment packet after more than 15 hours of review, public meetings, and discussions.
This amendment packet (Attachment A) encompasses updates and changes across three key areas:
Corrections to address identified clerical errors that arose during the publishing and formatting of the original Fire Code. These errors fall into two categories: numbering errors, where section numbering sequences were inadvertently adjusted or reset, and grammar and sentence structure errors. These corrections have been made and will help ensure transparency in enforcement and compliance with the Fire Code.
Updates to keep pace with the evolving landscape of materials and industry trends to support development growth without causing construction delays. Simultaneously, these revisions incorporate technological advancements and industry developments within the commercial and industrial sectors. For example, the fast-growing and evolving battery energy storage sector is central to the amendment. By incorporating the latest national fire codes and industry standards for batteries and their systems, we elevate our community protection while safeguarding our first responders.
Modifications to the fee schedule to simplify the permitting process and adjust fees associated with implementing renewable energy systems. The result is a more efficient process for requestors and city staff. While this measure is anticipated to result in a modest reduction in revenue, the significant benefits to our customers, industry partners, and staff far outweigh the decrease in fee-based revenues.
The Fire Department will release updates to the codes in both English and Spanish, enhancing outreach and accessibility for the community. This update marks the final packet of amendments, as the department will start collaborating with the Planning and Development Department on adopting the 2024 International Codes.
Financial Impact
The financial impact on the city will be a slight decrease in fee-based revenue, estimated at around $76,200 per year.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
The Public Safety and Justice Subcommittee recommended approval of this item on Jan. 3, 2024.
Public Outreach
In compliance with Arizona Revised Statutes section 9-499.15, which mandates the posting of new fee proposals, the proposed fee changes outlined in this amendment packet have been publicly displayed for 60 days on the City's official website and 15 days on the City's social media platforms.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Lori Bays and the Fire Department.