Commission adopts updated Sedgwick County Fire Code incorporating 2024 International Fire Code

Brad Crisp, Sedgwick County Fire District 1 fire marshal, presented a package that he said included 85 amendments and recommended adoption of the 2024 International Fire Code as the county's 2025 Sedgwick County Fire Code. "The overview is I have a total of 85 amendments in this package," Crisp said, describing a mix of clarifications, some less restrictive changes and 14 amendments that are more restrictive. Key changes include requiring exterior riser rooms to be maintained at 40 degrees to prevent freezing, increasing required distances for open burning and bonfires, larger window dimensions in some sections, enlarged signage lettering for fire systems and restrictions keeping hazardous materials 500 feet from residential areas.

Crisp also explained a proposed fee increase for permits and plan reviews conducted outside the Fire District 1 taxing boundary, saying those jurisdictions often rely on the district to perform inspections and plan reviews and do not pay the district mill levy. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about jurisdictional scope and fee rationale; Commissioner Howe said he would support adoption while expressing concern about regulatory impact on affordable housing. The board then voted unanimously to adopt the code and the proposed local amendments.