ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 14

Safety and Health Committee · 2026-06-08 · ordinance

Miami-Dade County is amending Chapter 14 of its Code of Ordinances related to Fire Prevention and Life Safety. The ordinance updates definitions, clarifies owner statement requirements for fire investigations, modifies appeal procedures for fire code violations, and revises operating permit requirements. It introduces provisions for recording consent agreements and notices of violation, requires notification to the Chief Fire Official upon correction of certain violations, and authorizes the Chief Fire Official to order utility disconnections in specific circumstances for buildings with pending fire code violations. The ordinance also makes technical amendments to the Florida Fire Prevention Code, updates the false fire alarm ordinance, regulates the sale of exempt fireworks, addresses structures sharing street addresses, updates emergency action plan requirements, mandates testing and maintenance of exit and emergency lighting, requires reporting of fire protection system maintenance, governs emergency power systems and firefighting water supplies outside the urban development boundary, and modifies civil penalties. Public comment included support for stricter fireworks regulations due to concerns about illegal sales and dangerous practices, with specific mention of 'packing the cakes' and the need for layered protection and strong enforcement. Concerns were also raised regarding the utility disconnection authority, with recommendations for clear definitions of 'imminent danger' and an emergency appeal process. The ordinance passed its second reading and is pending BCC assignment.