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 regulations for fireworks sales. The ordinance also addresses false fire alarms, emergency action plans, exit and emergency lighting, fire protection systems, and emergency power systems. The matter 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, public comment was heard from Mr. Ron Book, representing fireworks companies, who supported the legislation and raised concerns about illegal fireworks. Commissioners discussed various aspects of the ordinance, including utility disconnection authority, definitions of 'imminent danger,' and enforcement procedures. The ordinance is a substitute to File Number 260390 and is estimated to require 4-6 weeks for processing.