Layton council adopts 2024 fire code, bars EV chargers under occupied parking structures

Layton City Council voted unanimously May 21 to update the city's fire code and add a ban on electric-vehicle charging stations located inside parking structures that have dwelling units or other occupied space directly above.

Chief Scott Mon, presenting ordinance 26-13, said the city is replacing the 2021 edition with the 2024 International Fire Code and is proposing clarifying amendments. "Electric vehicle charging station shall not be located within a parking structure," he said, explaining that lithium-ion battery fires can enter thermal runaway and are difficult to extinguish in enclosed, poorly ventilated garages.

The fire department told the council two existing parking structures in Layton already include chargers; staff said the amendment would not force removal of these installations but would prevent future installations under those occupied structures. Chief Mon and other staff said the change is meant to protect residents living above multi-level parking where access and ventilation are limited.

Council members asked staff about definitions and practicality. City counsel read a working definition into the record to clarify that for this section a "parking structure" means any garage or carport attached to a building in which occupied space (including dwelling units, offices, assembly areas or similar uses) is located directly above any portion of the parking area. Staff said outdoor charging remains encouraged and permissible where there is good ventilation and access.

The ordinance was approved as part of the consent package. The city will make the updated code effective July 1, 2026.

What happens next: The change applies to new permits and new developments; staff said they will work with builders and owners of projects currently under construction to mitigate risk while preserving existing lawful uses where feasible.