This bill amends the administration and enforcement of the state fire code by granting local fire chiefs the authority to issue variances from the state fire code under specific conditions. It establishes a process for variance applications, which includes a signed statement from the applicant acknowledging the risks associated with the variance and agreeing to indemnify the regulatory authority. Additionally, the bill introduces a 20-year exemption from retroactive fire code compliance for construction that has received a building permit and a certificate of occupancy, provided that the construction was compliant at the time of the permit issuance. After 20 years, compliance with the current fire code may be required.

Furthermore, the bill creates a de novo appeal process for decisions made by local fire chiefs, allowing appeals to be heard by the state fire marshal, who must render a decision within a specified timeframe. The state fire marshal is also given the authority to approve or disapprove exceptions to the state building code. The bill modifies existing legal language by deleting references to appeals solely related to the state fire code and inserting provisions for appeals concerning local fire chief decisions on variances. The act is set to take effect on July 2, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 153:5, 153:8-a, 154:2, 155-A:7, 155-A:11
HB1555 text: 153:5, 153:8-a, 154:2, 155-A:7, 155-A:11