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Council approves building and fire code updates and clarifies above-ground tank rules
Summary
On third reading the governing body approved ordinances updating multiple building-code sections and the International Fire Code; the council also amended language clarifying above-ground tanks and containers. The fire-code update includes a grandfather clause for existing rooftop solar systems to address firefighter access concerns.
The governing body approved on third and final reading an ordinance amending various sections of Title 15 (Buildings and Construction) to update building-code requirements and make technical corrections. On the same night, council approved an ordinance adopting updates to the International Fire Code in Title 8 and passed a related ordinance clarifying rules for above-ground tanks and containers.
Why it matters: The city updates building and fire codes to align with state law and the latest adopted international codes; those updates affect construction standards and safety enforcement. The fire-code amendment included a substitute adopted in committee that added a grandfather clause for existing solar systems to avoid undue hardship for property owners while addressing firefighter access and laddering concerns.
Council action and rationale: Councilmember Seagrave moved approval of the building-code ordinance on third reading; the motion was seconded and members voted in favor. For the fire code, Seagrave moved adoption and also moved to amend by a substitute dated Feb. 13, 2025; the substitute was seconded and adopted. The substitute "grandfathered folks who have an existing solar system" while addressing firefighter safety concerns.
The tanks-and-containers ordinance was presented as cleanup to align language with the recently adopted fire code and passed on third and final reading. During discussion, Doctor Aldridge raised concerns about propane use in annexed properties and asked that planning and fire staff coordinate on notification and alignment of ordinance restrictions and any grandfathering for annexed properties; Cheyenne Fire Department Chief Bob Mason acknowledged staff have been working on the issue.
Vote: The council approved the building-code ordinance, the fire-code ordinance as amended, and the tanks-and-containers ordinance on third and final reading.
Ending: Council asked staff to coordinate on annexation, propane-use notification and to ensure code alignment and communications with property owners as older properties are incorporated into city limits.
