Keller officials unanimously approved new updates to its fire code at a regular meeting April 21.
The new code includes changes for emerging technology risks, fire protection requirements and new sections, which impact scooter storage and locations for electric vehicle charging stations.
The details
Micromobility devices like scooters, hoverboards and skateboards are now prohibited from being stored and charged in pathways or common areas of multi-family occupancies, schools and city buildings in Keller.
A presentation Keller Fire Marshal Stephanie Billarreal provided to council showed 78% of lithium-ion battery fires occur indoors.
Billarreal also said EV charging stations are now prohibited in commercial structures aside from parking garages. New code also requires that charging stations have a heat detector for chargers in multi-family buildings with garages.
EV charging stations are now also required to have a remote power disconnect with signage.
“This gives firefighters the ability to shut off power completely without having to be right up on these vehicles,” Billarreal said.
The background
The International Fire Code is a regional code recommended by the North Central Texas Council of Governnments, or NCTCOG, which adopts a new code every three years, according to city documents. Keller officials approved the 2024 edition of the International Fire Code April 21.
Additional amendments in the 2024 edition for Keller include:
New and expanded requirements for lithium-ion batteries and energy storage systemsBroader sprinkler and detection requirementsOpen burning related to agricultural and wildlife management allowed with a permitRecreational fires prohibited on balconies and patios of commercial and multi-family buildings, but allowed outdoors of 1-2 family dwellings 15 feet from a structure and following safety guidelinesValid fire inspection for mobile food vendors every year after new legislation taking effect July 1