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Commission gives direction to pursue 2021 fire code update, including retrofit sprinkler appendix
Summary
A work session reviewed proposed adoption of the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC). Staff recommended adopting the full 2021 code, including Appendix M (retrofit sprinklers for certain high‑rise structures); commissioners directed staff to schedule a public hearing.
The City Commission held a work session on proposed updates to Mount Pleasant's fire code, reviewing the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) changes and discussing implementation, timelines and affected buildings.
Lieutenant Brad (Fire Marshal) summarized notable changes between the city's current (2012) fire code and the 2021 IFC: expanded requirements for fire alarms and sprinkler systems, updated carbon-monoxide detection for hotels/motels, new language on mobile food preparation vehicles, and provisions for energy storage and photovoltaic systems. He specifically called out Appendix M, which addresses sprinkler retrofit requirements for existing high-rise buildings (defined as 75 feet or taller from the lowest fire department access point). Staff said two buildings in the city currently meet that height threshold and would be affected by the retrofit requirement. The 2021 IFC sequence provides 365 days to submit a plan and up to 12 years to complete retrofits for qualifying high-rise structures.
Commissioners asked about retroactivity and exemptions: staff explained that existing structures are generally grandfathered for many items, but Appendix M would require a phased retrofit schedule. Commissioners asked about affected parties and whether building owners — including the Housing Commission (which owns at least one of the high-rise buildings) — had been notified. Staff said the timing of a public hearing will allow notifying affected building owners and that the commission should expect a public hearing so property owners and stakeholders can provide input.
Several commissioners expressed support for adopting the full 2021 code, including Appendix M, noting safety benefits for occupants in high-rise buildings. Commissioners asked staff to schedule a public hearing and to engage affected building owners, including the Housing Commission, to identify feasible timelines and any available grant or tax incentives that could offset retrofit costs.
No formal ordinance was adopted at the work session; commissioners provided direction to proceed toward a public hearing and to keep the entire code (including appendices) in the proposed adoption.
