ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 14

Board of County Commissioners · 2026-07-21 · ordinance

This legislative matter concerns an ordinance amending Chapter 14 of the Miami-Dade County Code, relating to fire prevention and life safety. The ordinance updates definitions, changes requirements for owner statements on fire investigations, amends appeal procedures for fire code violations, and updates requirements for operating permits. It also provides for the recording of consent agreements and notices of violation, requires notification upon correction of certain violations, and authorizes the Chief Fire Official to order utility disconnections in specific circumstances. Technical amendments to the Florida Fire Prevention Code, updates to the false fire alarm ordinance, and provisions for the sale of exempt fireworks are included. Additionally, it addresses the designation and posting to identify structures sharing a street address, updates emergency action plan requirements, and mandates testing and maintenance of exit and emergency lighting. Requirements for reporting maintenance activities for fire protection systems, protection and installation of emergency power systems, and water supplies for firefighting outside the urban development boundary are also updated. Civil penalties are imposed and modified. The matter was introduced on June 2, 2026, and an agenda date was set for July 21, 2026, with a deferral requested to September 1, 2026. The Safety and Health Committee forwarded the ordinance with a favorable recommendation following a public hearing on June 8, 2026. Public comment included support from fireworks vendors regarding concerns about illegal 'packing the cakes' and the need for local ordinances to supplement state law. Discussions also covered increased fines, technical support for small businesses, the process for utility disconnections as a last resort for egregious violations, and the definition of 'imminent danger'. Concerns were also raised about illegal fireworks in residential neighborhoods and the enforcement of regulations for pop-up tents selling fireworks.