Title
2024 International Fire Code Adoption (Ordinance)
Body
Background:
The Fire Code establishes minimum requirements consistent with nationally recognized good practices. It provides a reasonable level of life safety and property protection from the hazards of fire, explosion, and dangerous conditions; applies to new and existing buildings, structures, and premises; and promotes the safety of firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
The 2024 International Fire Code (IFC), published by the International Code Council, includes several notable updates that are especially relevant to municipalities, developers, plan reviewers, fire departments, and Development Services staff. The 2024 IFC continues a major shift toward addressing emerging technologies, battery storage systems, mixed-use development, and operational risk management.
The 2024 Fire Code has been reviewed and revised by Fire Department and Development Services staff, the Board of Appeals, and the Public Safety Advisory Board. Additionally, the Fire Department collaborates with peer municipalities through the Heart of America Metro Fire Chiefs Council / Fire Marshal’s Section to promote regional consistency and best practices in code administration and enforcement.
Recommendation:
Staff recommends that the Community and Economic Development Committee (CEDC) recommend approval of the Ordinance amending Chapter 13 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and forward the Ordinance to the City Council for further consideration. Prior to Council consideration, the Ordinance shall undergo an additional review by staff to ensure internal consistency with the adopted 2024 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) and 2024 International Building Code (IBC) Ordinances. Should substantive changes to the Ordinance be identified, the Ordinance would be returned to CEDC for additional consideration.
Presenter
Jim Eden, Assistant Fire Chief