Mount Pleasant adopts 2021 International Fire Code, omitting Appendix M

The Mount Pleasant City Commission voted to amend Chapter 93 of city code to adopt the 2021 edition of the International Fire Code, with the commission’s stated intent to omit Appendix M.

Manager Suntz and the city attorney presented the proposed ordinance before the public hearing, explaining that staff drafted the amendment to reflect current standards while excluding Appendix M as previously directed by the commission. After hearing public comment, commissioners debated fiscal and design implications before moving for final adoption.

At the public hearing, resident Joseph Carreon warned that some provisions of the 2021 code “are the reason we see so many of the same apartments,” citing section 1006.3.3 on minimum stairways and urging the commission to consider local design standards to preserve variety. “This limits the design heavily,” Carreon said.

A commissioner who supported the measure said the code has been reviewed multiple times and that adopting a current edition gives staff a clear framework for inspections and public safety. The commissioner added that the omission of Appendix M reflected the commission’s earlier direction and concerns about specific local impacts.

The motion to adopt the code was moved and seconded, followed by a voice vote. The commission indicated approval and the mayor declared the motion passed.

The adoption updates the city’s fire-safety rules to the 2021 national model while retaining the commission’s local edits. The city clerk will publish the ordinance amendment as required, and staff noted any affected building owners will be informed about compliance requirements and timelines.