County adopts international fire code

Hays County adopted the 2018 International Fire Code for unincorporated areas of the county. 

The Hays County Commissioners Court voted to adopt the code during Tuesday’s meeting. 

County Fire Marshal Scott Raven explained to the court that counties with 250,000 residents or more and counties that border another with 250,000 residents or more have the authority to adopt a fire code. He added that Hays County is the only county on the Interstate 35 corridor between Williamson and Bexar counties without a fire code. 

“Also the cities in Hays County, most of the major cities — San Marcos, Kyle, Buda, Dripping Springs, Wimberley, Woodcreek — they’ve all adopted fire codes that means the unincorporated areas in Hays County are kind of this wild west out there that could lead to opportunities to build things that are not safe,” Raven said. “And that’s what we want to prevent.”

 The fire code will standardize installation and maintenance of fire protection features and fire safety of persons and property. The code regulates building construction, fire protection equipment, heat-producing devices, public assembly, exits, hazardous material and processes, fire department access roads and water supply. The fire code applies to all new commercial and public buildings or developments, all new multi-family homes, all new additions and/or remodeling of 50% or greater to commercial, public buildings or developments and multi-family homes. It also applies to all new residential subdivisions for review of site plans for the fire department water supply requirements and access roads. 

“This is a huge endeavor. This is a very big deal,” County Judge Ruben Becerra said. “This is a huge undertaking for the county as a whole.”

Added Hays County Interim Director of Emergency Services Justin McInnis: “we’re at a point where a code is needed to protect lives and property.”

The 2018 International Fire Code goes into effect on Jan. 1.

The county fire marshal's office will review site plans and building plans and will issue stamped plans and all required permits after approval. Inspectors will complete all necessary inspections throughout construction projects and issue certificates of compliance prior to approving a building for occupancy.