Staff previews 2024 International Building Code updates for Coppell; focus on emergency responder radio coverage and EV charging amendments

Coppell — City building and fire officials reviewed the proposed adoption of the 2024 International Code series during the April 8 work session, telling the City Council the update brings safety and interoperability improvements but also requires local amendments in several areas.

Chief building official Steve Shewert and Fire Chief Oates summarized changes that will affect new construction and inspections if Coppell adopts the 2024 editions. Two issues the staff highlighted as most relevant to Coppell are: emergency responder communications (radio enhancement) systems for structures with interior radio coverage issues, and proposed amendments to address electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

Emergency responder radio systems: Fire staff said the updated codes discuss in‑building radio amplification (often antenna systems or distributed antenna systems) that improve first‑responder radio coverage where building materials and topography reduce signal strength. Staff said Coppell’s topography and existing antenna infrastructure generally provide adequate coverage for many buildings, but new construction with low‑E windows, thick concrete or certain layouts may require dedicated pathways or systems. Staff noted their current practice is to require pathway provision in new construction so a system can be added if in‑building testing shows coverage gaps; they do not withhold certificates simply because a pathway is provided.

EV charging and fire safety amendments: The 2024 International Fire Code itself does not comprehensively address vehicle charging safety, so staff proposed a Council of Governments (COG)‑recommended amendment. The amendment staff recommended adds a fire‑department accessible power disconnect for charging arrays (a locked disconnect box the fire department can operate) and places limits on the location of charging stations in parking garages (first‑floor proximity to entrances, within 50 feet of a fire lane, or near stairwells or top floors to preserve access). The intent is to balance charging deployment with firefighter access and emergency power‑isolation capability.

Residential and permitting notes: Staff said most residential EV charger installations follow manufacturers’ installation instructions; the city requires permits for residential chargers and had roughly two residential charger permits per month on average last year (staff estimated roughly 30 permits in a recent year and a citywide estimate of fewer than 100 permanent chargers currently installed). Staff also said they will run an outreach program during national Building Safety Month in May to educate residents about permit requirements and safe installations.

Code adoption and insurance/ISO implications: Shewert said code adoption affects the city’s insurance and ISO rating because the BCEGS and other audits track how current a jurisdiction’s adopted codes are and how they are enforced. He recommended the city adopt the new cycle and stick closely to published model language where possible to minimize additional local costs.

Next steps: Staff presented a packet of proposed amendments and told council they will return with the formal ordinance for adoption. Council members asked for further clarity on residential permit counts and the practical impacts to homeowners doing renovations; staff said they will provide additional outreach and concrete guidance to homeowners and contractors.

Ending: Council heard the technical briefing and took no formal vote; staff will bring formal adoption language and the proposed local amendments back in a later ordinance cycle for council consideration.