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Council adopts fire-code changes to add response-cost recoveries and biannual inspections after large recycling fire
Summary
The council adopted amendments to Title 9 (Fire Prevention Code) to define fire-response expenses, add biannual inspections, and adjust combustible-material height limits and permit-holder response expense provisions after a major recycling facility fire.
The El Paso City Council unanimously adopted an ordinance amending Title 9 (Health and Safety), Chapter 9.52 (Fire Prevention Code). The changes add a definition for “fire response expense,” require biannual inspections for affected sites, amend the allowable height limit for combustible outdoor storage per unit, and establish a process to recover response expenses from permit holders for certain fire events.
Council discussion framed the ordinance as part of a broader response to a large recycling-facility fire in the Chamizal neighborhood last year. Representative Canales thanked Fire Chief Jonathan Killings and Chief Arvizu and said the changes are “a good start” to reduce the risk from outside combustible storage. Chief Killings described the ordinance as a multi-department effort involving businesses, neighborhood associations and other stakeholders; he emphasized education and prevention alongside enforcement and said the ordinance includes two inspections per year with an initial focus on education.
Councilors and staff said the ordinance is an initial step and more measures — including consolidation of code-enforcement functions to increase capacity — are expected as follow-up work. The ordinance passed unanimously.
