The International Codes are the predominant fire codes used throughout the nation. On a three year cycle they are updated and published by the International Code Council. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements consistent with nationally recognized good practice, providing a reasonable level of life, safety, and property protection from the hazards of fire, explosion, or dangerous conditions in new and existing buildings, structures, and premise, as well as providing safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations. The city has adopted this code periodically with certain modified or amended provisions specific to the City of Sparks. Adopting the updated 2018 version of the International Fire Code and International Wildland Urban Interface Code will assure the City is kept current in the most up-to-date fire safety regulations.

Additionally, the Fire Officials in Northern Nevada wanted to bring a more consistent approach to the way building codes are adopted and interpreted. Steering and technical committees were formed to develop the 2018 Northern Nevada Fire Amendments to the International Codes. These committees, consisting of representatives of fire organizations and code officials, have authored an amendment package that will be adopted throughout Northern Nevada.  Therefore, this ordinance will have the effect of adopting the most recent versions of the International Codes as outlined in the ordinance, as well as the 2018 Northern Nevada Fire Amendments to the various codes.

The adoption of the proposed bill will amend, by ordinance, Title 14, Fire Prevention and Protection, of the Sparks Municipal Code (SMC) by adopting the 2018 editions of the International Fire Code and the International Wildland Urban Interface Code, and the 2018 Northern Nevada Fire Amendments, each of which are to become effective on July 1, 2019, and other matters properly related thereto.

The City Council may choose to reject the amendment to the code and provide direction to Staff.

This is the first reading only; no motion is required.