ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 14

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

Miami-Dade County is considering an ordinance (File Number 261040) to amend Chapter 14 of the Code of Miami-Dade County, Florida, relating to fire prevention and life safety. The proposed changes include updating definitions, modifying requirements for owner statements on fire investigations, amending appeal procedures for fire code violations, updating operating permit requirements, authorizing the Chief Fire Official to order utility disconnections for buildings with pending fire code violations under specific circumstances, and updating requirements for emergency action plans, testing of exit and emergency lighting, reporting maintenance for fire protection systems, and installation of emergency power systems and water supplies for firefighting outside the urban development boundary. The ordinance also addresses technical amendments to the Florida Fire Prevention Code, updates the false fire alarm ordinance, provides for the sale of exempt fireworks, designates structures sharing a street address, imposes and modifies civil penalties, and includes technical and conforming changes. The item was introduced on June 2, 2026, and an agenda date is set for July 21, 2026. A deferral was requested to the September 1, 2026, Board of County Commissioners meeting. During a Safety and Health Committee meeting on June 8, 2026, Mr. Ron Book spoke in support of the legislation on behalf of fireworks companies, highlighting concerns about illegal fireworks and the need for local ordinances to supplement state law. Commissioner Bastien raised questions about increased fines, technical support for small businesses, and the authority to disconnect utilities, emphasizing the need for clear definitions of 'imminent danger' and an emergency appeal process. Commissioner Hardemon expressed concerns about illegal fireworks in residential neighborhoods and asked about enforcement responsibilities. The ordinance aims to strengthen documentation for fireworks sales and clarify enforcement procedures.