Council adopts 2024 International Fire Code with local amendments; change to "no corner touching" amendment fails

Sterling Heights councilors voted to adopt the 2024 International Fire Code with local amendments after a discussion about technical changes that affect building configuration and firefighter access.

Fire department leadership told council the 2015 version was in place and the new code reflects technology and building-practice changes. The chief explained the local amendments are intended to reduce unintended residential fires and improve emergency access.

Council discussion focused on three points: a provision that restricts cooking in garages that are not habitable living spaces, a minimum roadway width for new constructions to allow fire apparatus access (the code language references 26 feet), and a local amendment requiring a minimum separation so building corners do not touch (the council motion called it "no corner touching"). Councilmember Radke questioned whether the amendment would discourage compact, green-site design; the fire chief and other staff said the separation improves access and reduces risk of rapid fire spread in connected rooflines. Radke moved to delete the no-corner-touching local amendment; that motion failed on roll call 5' and the council then adopted the full ordinance.

The ordinance was adopted after the failed amendment vote; council did not direct staff to change the adopted local amendments at the meeting.