ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 14

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

[case 261040] This document is a legislative matter, specifically an ordinance amending Chapter 14 of the Code of Miami-Dade County, Florida, relating to fire prevention. It is not a development project with a specific address, parcel, size, or zoning change. The ordinance was introduced on 6/2/2026, deferred on 7/21/2026, and scheduled for a second reading on 9/1/2026. It received a favorable recommendation from the Safety and Health Committee on 6/8/2026. The ordinance updates various fire code requirements, including definitions, owner's statements on fire investigations, appeals procedures, operating permits, recording of consent agreements and notices of violation, notification of violation correction, utility disconnection authority for the Chief Fire Official, false fire alarm penalties, sale of exempt fireworks, designation of structures sharing a street address, emergency action plans, exit and emergency lighting testing, maintenance reporting for fire protection systems, emergency power systems, and water supplies for firefighting outside the Urban Development Boundary. Public comment included support from Mr. Ron Book on behalf of Neptune Fireworks, American Promotional, and TNT Fireworks, who highlighted the need to close gaps in Florida Statute 791 and address illegal 'packing the cakes' practices. Commissioner Bastien raised concerns about the utility disconnection authority, recommending a clear definition of 'imminent danger', written documentation, and an emergency appeal process. Commissioner Hardemon expressed concerns about illegal fireworks in residential neighborhoods. The committee directed the administration to develop a formal definition of 'imminent danger' related to utility disconnection.