Council adopts 2024 International Fire Code with local amendments; new rules cover battery storage, food trucks and carbon monoxide detection

The Loveland City Council adopted on first reading the 2024 International Fire Code, repealing and reenacting the city’s fire code chapter with updated statewide and model‑code language and modest local amendments. The ordinance passed 7–1.

Fire Marshal Carrie Dann and Building Official Teresa Campbell briefed council on substantive changes in the 2024 code that have particular operational impact for fire prevention and permitting. Notable updates include new provisions addressing energy storage systems (including lithium‑ion batteries) in commercial occupancies; rules for powered mobility devices (e‑bikes, scooters) when stored in multi‑family buildings; expanded carbon‑monoxide detection requirements; a new chapter addressing food‑truck permitting; and an appendix on “valet trash” and recycling collection in apartment common areas.

Dann and Campbell said Loveland’s local amendments largely carry forward earlier clarifications and cooperation with adjacent Front Range jurisdictions to maintain consistency for applicants and developers. The local package also includes a requirement for automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in businesses with occupant loads of 100 or more, and clarifies residential sprinkler triggers in situations where water supply and access do not meet minimum fire‑flow standards.

Councilors asked about evolving mitigation for energy‑storage fires and the effectiveness of new suppression tools; staff said national standards continue to evolve and that the city will monitor industry guidance. The ordinance sets an enforcement date of Jan. 1, 2026 for the updated code and the fire department indicated it will return with additional amendments later in the year to align with recent state wildfire‑risk reduction mandates.