Executive Summary 2025 Oregon Fire Code Amendments
Revised 6/12/25, Version 2.0
Download a print-only version of the executive summary here.
Overview
This document summarizes several of the significant changes to the proposed 2025
Oregon Fire Code (OFC). Part I contains additions, modifications and amendments approved at the International Code Council code development hearings for publication within the 2024
International Fire Code,which is published for nationwide adoption. The Oregon Fire Code subcommittee reviewed these changes and provided their recommendations for adoption.
Part II has new proposed Oregon amendments as reviewed by the 2025 OFC subcommittee and includes applicable stakeholder input and a brief statement on how the Oregon Fire Code Advisory Board (OFCAB) voted as part of their final recommendation to the State Fire Marshal.
PART I
Significant Changes to the 2024
International Fire Code: The significant changes highlighted below were changes that OSFM Technical Services Unit (TSU) determined to highlight based upon positive impacts within Oregon. There were over 100+ changes and additions to the model code (2024 International Fire Code) and all those items were discussed at the International Code Council level with comments and approvals conducted at those meetings. The Oregon Fire Code Committee's reviewed all the changes within the 2024 International Fire Code and after reviewing the committee's agreed with all the changes and or additions to be included within the 2025 Oregon Fire Code.
1. Section 104 – Duties and Powers of the Fire Code Official Code Change Type – Modification
Change Summary – The provisions for review and approval of “alternative methods" are revised and clarified. The alternative method criteria are now the same in all the International Codes (I-Codes), enhancing the uniformity and application of companion codes.
Purpose – The revisions are designed to improve organization of the section; clarify the difference between evaluations from accredited evaluation agencies and evaluations from others, such as engineers; enhance guidance for evaluation of alternative methods and materials; and clarify the use of the section on modifications.
Background – Section 104 contains general requirements for the authority, duties and powers of the fire code official. Among these authorities and duties is the review and approval of projects and facilities to determine compliance with the code. Section 104 provides various approaches available to demonstrate code compliance. The revisions to Section 104 update those approaches commonly in use today.
Justification/Rationale – This enhances the application of the codes and allows the building code official and the fire code official to utilize the same process when evaluating an alternative method that affects code provisions from multiple disciplines.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
OFC Subcommittee Recommendation – Two proposed code changes were submitted to this section by the OFC subcommittee. The Technical Services Unit reviewed the two proposed changes and concluded that they were outside the scope and authority of the fire code officials and conflicted with ORS 455.148(8) and ORS 455.485. The subcommittee chair and proponent were informed and understood the possible conflicts, and these were not moved forward to the OFCAB.
2. Section 202 – Definition of Emergency Responder Communications Enhancement System (ERCES)
Code Change Type – Addition
Change Summary – The two-way emergency responder communications system is now referred to as the emergency responder communications enhancement system, and several other definitions are included to assist in applying these regulations.
Purpose – Emergency responders use portable radios to communicate with other emergency responders and the incident commander at the site of a fire.
Emergency responders need to be able to communicate from inside of a building with others outside the building.
Background – The term “two-way emergency responder communication system" is revised to “emergency responder communications enhancement system (ERCES)." Multiple solutions are available and utilized to improve communication coverage inside buildings for emergency responders. The selection of the proper solution and coordination of its design, installation and maintenance can create safety issues for anyone needing to operate on those frequencies. The safety of emergency responders and the integrity of the communications system is of the utmost importance.
Justification/Rationale – Building construction features and materials can absorb or block the radio frequency energy used to carry the signals through the building. Blockage or absorption of the radio frequency signal can prevent receipt and acknowledgment of a critical message from an emergency responder. Requirements in the Oregon Structural Specialty Code and Oregon Fire Code apply to analog or digital radio systems and are applicable to all buildings.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
OFC Subcommittee Recommendation – Unanimously recommended with no changes.
3. Section 202 – Definition of Puzzle Rooms Code Change Type – Modification
Change Summary – Puzzle rooms are defined in the building and fire code and included under the general definition of special amusement areas.
Purpose – Throughout the country these interactive, themed rooms have grown in popularity and multiple life safety concerns have arisen. A special amusement area is a building or portion thereof where people gather and in which egress is either not readily apparent due to distractions, is intentionally confounded or is not readily available. Additional provisions have been added to chapters 9, 10 and 31.
Background – A puzzle room, sometimes called an escape room, is a recent entertainment experience wherein the participants must find their escape from a room or area. There is the perception that occupants are locked into the room and cannot exit without solving a series of clues.
The definition includes all such facilities, including portable and temporary structures. The hazard associated with such buildings is not related to the permanence or length of use; therefore, seasonal uses and portable uses are included in the definition.
Justification/Rationale – Since the egress path is not readily available, or readily visible, the puzzle room is classified as a special amusement area.
The definition of puzzle room was added to the 2021
InternationalBuilding Code(IBC) along with revisions to the definition of special amusement areas. These changes have also been made to the 2024 IFC.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
OFC Subcommittee Recommendation – Unanimously recommended with no changes.
4. Section 320 – Lithium-ion and Lithium Metal Battery Storage Code Change Type – New section
Change Summary – Requirements pertaining to the storge of lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries are added to address the significant fire hazard that occurs during thermal runaway.
Purpose – Advancements in battery technologies have introduced a new generation of battery types, such as lithium-ion and flow batteries, each with advantages and potential hazards.
Background – Lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries can create challenging fires. The IFC intends to provide the necessary safety mechanisms to prevent and mitigate fires and explosions that can result due to the inherent hazards associated with the technologies. IFC Section 1207 addresses electrical energy storage systems (ESS), but other uses for lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries exist.
Justification/Rationale – The provisions are intended to address all types of storage scenarios from manufacturing to warehouse operations to retail, and even the collection and recycling process. The requirements focus on mitigation of the significant impact thermal runaway and fires can have on facilities and public safety.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
OFC Subcommittee Recommendation – Unanimously recommended with no changes.
5. Section 322 – Powered Micromobility Devices Code Change Type – New section
Change Summary – Requirements are added to regulate the use and re-charging of lithium-ion or lithium metal battery powered micromobility devices.
Purpose – Battery operated scooters, bicycles, wheelchairs and devices have been available for years. Many of these devices are now powered by lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries, and fire incidents have occurred as a result.
Background – The fire incidents have mainly occurred during charging times or during actual use and operation. Lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries can result in a thermal runaway incident with a significant fire. There have been significant fires due to these devices, including a 4-alarm fire in New York City.
Justification/Rationale – Provisions in Chapter 3 establish safety requirements for storage and charging of powered micromobility devices with lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries. The devices, along with the charging equipment, must be list
d.
Operating a rental, sales or service business for powered micromobility devices is strictly prohibited in residential occupancies. This prohibition does not apply to the charging of personal devices for personal use.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
OFC Subcommittee Recommendation – Unanimously recommended with no changes.
6. Section 403.10.6 – Fire Safety Plan for Lithium-ion Batteries Code Change Type – Addition
Change Summary – A fire safety and evacuation plan must be maintained for most occupancies that involve activities for the research and development, testing, manufacturing, handling or storage of lithium-ion batteries or lithium metal batteries, or the repair or servicing of vehicles powered by lithium-ion batteries or lithium metal batteries.
Purpose – This section requires a fire safety and evacuation plan be prepared and maintained for occupancies conducting activities involving lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries.
Background – Lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries have been a contributing factor in a growing number of fire incidents for several years and are being used in an ever-increasing number of products and applications.
Justification/Rationale – Early mitigation and planned actions are key elements in providing for the safety of occupants and reducing the size of a fire event.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
OFC Subcommittee Recommendation – Unanimously recommended with no changes.
7. Section 705.2.7 – Rolling Fire Door Testing Code Change Type – Modification
Change Summary – Rolling steel fire doors must be inspected, tested, and reset by a trained fire door systems technician on an annual basis and in accordance with NFPA 80.
Purpose – Rolling steel fire doors have a unique operation and require specific product training to ensure the inspection personnel will be able to properly conduct the inspection and testing, including a visual inspection of the door assembly, a check of the door operation, a drop test and a reset of the door to operational status.
Background – The complex nature of the tension release devices and the automatic closing systems include multiple components which must work together for the door to operate properly.
Justification/Rationale – The technician must be familiar with the types of equipment and the features of the door assembly, as well as manufacturer-specific details necessary to help ensure the door will function as intended.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
OFC Subcommittee Recommendation – Unanimously recommended with no changes.
8. Section 903.2 and 903.3 – Sprinklers for Battery Storage, Testing, and Vehicle Repair
Code Change Type – Modification
Change Summary – A sprinkler system is required for facilities where lithium-ion batteries or lithium metal batteries are developed, tested, manufactured, and stored, and also where vehicles powered by lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries are repaired.
Purpose – Research, testing and development activities can present an increased risk of thermal runaway. In certain testing, thermal runaway is even caused intentionally.
Background – Fire sprinklers are required for lithium-ion battery areas exceeding 500 square feet because of the unique fire hazards associated with these batteries, particularly the risk of thermal runaway. Thermal runaway can cause a cascading ignition and fire, making traditional fire suppression methods insufficient. Sprinklers are needed to rapidly cool the affected area and prevent the fire from spreading.
Justification/Rationale – Lithium-ion batteries and lithium metal batteries are capable of producing significant heat during a fire situation. The areas where these batteries are manufactured, repaired, stored and displayed for retail are required to be protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
OFC Subcommittee Recommendation – Unanimously recommended with no changes.
9. Section 904.12 – Hybrid fire-extinguishing Systems Code Change Type – New section
Change Summary – Hybrid fire-extinguishing systems are now addressed in the IFC.
Purpose – The Montreal Protocol of 1989 has resulted in a continuing search to replace halon fire-extinguishing systems. Hybrid fire-extinguishing systems are a recently developed fire-extinguishing method.
Background – These systems consist of the discharge of a fine water spray combined with an inert gas. The discharge results in the oxygen concentration dropping below 16 percent. These systems combine the technology of water mist systems and clean agent systems.
Justification/Rationale – There is no requirement to install hybrid fire-extinguishing systems. These systems are included as an option under alternative fire-extinguishing systems. But the application of these systems must be based on a listing or specific testing. A new standard has been developed for the design and installation of these systems – NFPA 770,
StandardonHybrid(WaterandInertGas)Fire-ExtinguishingSystems. This standard must be followed to ensure the fire is controlled and the oxygen level is maintained at acceptable levels in occupied areas.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
OFC Subcommittee Recommendation – Unanimously recommended with no changes.
10. Section 915.1 – Carbon Monoxide Alarms Code Change Type – Modification
Change Summary – Carbon monoxide (CO) detection is required in all occupancies containing a carbon monoxide source. Detection and notification can be addressed in several ways, and a definition is added to clarify where CO detection is required.
Purpose – Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is produced by burning fuels such as gas, wood, propane, charcoal, gasoline or other fuels. CO is produced by fuel-powered vehicles and fuel-fired equipment within buildings such as water heaters, furnaces, fireplaces, dryers, etc. Because of these hazards, the installation of CO detection and occupant notification is the best way to alert occupants of a potential problem.
Background – CO poisoning incidents resulting in deaths and injuries continue to happen across all occupancies not just those occupancies previously covered. Therefore, all occupancies are to be provided with CO detection. The only exception is Group F, S and U occupancies, which are not normally occupied.
Justification/Rationale – The CO detection requirements have been substantially revised and reformatted by several code changes. Perhaps the most significant change is that CO detection is required in all occupancies where a CO producing source is present in an occupied building. Previously, CO detection systems were only required in Group I-1, I-2, I-4 and in classrooms in a Group E occupancy as well as in all R occupancies in Oregon (BDC amendment).
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
OFC Subcommittee Recommendation – Unanimously recommended with no changes.
11. Section 4005 – Protection of Distilled Spirits in Wooden Barrels Code Change Type – Addition
Change Summary – Specific design criteria are included for automatic sprinkler systems protecting distilled spirits in wooden barrels.
Purpose – This section is added to provide guidance for the design of the automatic sprinkler system protecting distilled spirits in wooden barrels stored in warehouse facilities and in small distillery facilities.
Background – Largely, one of the changes is the threshold at which the percentage of alcohol results in a higher classification of hazard. Traditionally, beverages with an alcohol content greater than 16 percent were considered to present a higher level of hazard and were therefore placed into Group F-1 for manufacturing and packaging and Group S-1 for storage. Recent testing by FM Global demonstrates that the 16 percent threshold was too restrictive, so the threshold is revised to 20 percent based on fire testing. If the alcohol content is not more than 20 percent, the alcohol content does not raise the flammability of the liquid to an extent where additional levels of protection are necessary. These beverages with an alcohol content of 20 percent or less are considered nonflammable or noncombustible liquids. As a result, the manufacturing, packaging and storage of beverages with an alcohol content of 20 percent or less are classified as Group F-2 or S-2 as appropriate. Section 4005.3 specifies that for beverages with an alcohol content of 20 percent or less, the sprinkler design criteria in NFPA 13,
Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, are appropriate.
Justification/Rationale – For those beverages with an alcohol content greater than 20 percent, Section 4005 provides criteria for the storage and protection of distilled spirits in barrels. Section 4005.1.1 limits the height of storage for palletized storage of on-end barrels to 7 barrels high. Section 4005.1.3 addresses loading aisles that may be used in palletized storage.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
OFC Subcommittee Recommendation – Unanimously recommended with no changes.
PART II
Oregon Amendments with OFCAB recommendations to State Fire Marshal. The following code amendments were recommendations provided by both the Oregon Fire Code Committee's and OSFM's Technical Services Unit. All the code amendments were then reviewed by the OFCAB and then provided recommendations to the State Fire Marshal.
12. Firework Retail Sales Requirements: Section 5609
Code Change Type – Addition.
Purpose – Provides fire code officials with a clear citation path for existing Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) permitted by the OSFM Regulatory Services Division.
Background – The OSFM issues retail fireworks permits while local fire departments conduct site inspections and ensure compliance at fireworks sales locations.
Amendment Summary – This amendment incorporates a paraphrased version of OSFM rules into the Oregon Fire Code as Section 5609, within the Explosives and Fireworks chapter. It outlines general requirements for all retail sales areas and specific provisions for indoor and outdoor sites.
Justification/Rationale – Fire regulations at retail fireworks sale's locations are typically enforced by local fire departments, but they lacked a direct citation for specific violations. This amendment provides enforceable code language to address this gap.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
Stakeholder Input – Mark Johnston, OSFM Regulatory Services Assistant Chief, contributed to the process, and a TNT Fireworks representative co-chaired the OFC Subcommittee.
OFCAB Recommendation – Unanimously recommended.
13. Special Effect Firework Definition: Section 202
Code Change Type – Addition.
Purpose – Establishes the statutory definition for “Special Effect Fireworks," including devices known as “cold spark machines," for fire code officials.
Background – “Cold spark machines" are hazardous due to their misleading name, which suggests safe use in any environment, despite requiring an OSFM permit. Their easy online availability exacerbates the issue.
Amendment Summary – Adds a definition for “Special Effect Fireworks" to Chapter 2 of the OFC, encompassing “Pyrotechnic Special-Effect Materials", including “cold spark machines," derived from ORS 480.111(17). The term is included in Section 105.5B, requiring the OSFM permit.
Justification/Rationale – Confusion and lack of awareness about the hazards of cold spark machines necessitate a clear definition and permit requirement to enhance safety and regulatory clarity.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No impact to either jurisdictions or the public.
Stakeholder Input – Mark Johnston, OSFM Regulatory Services Assistant Chief, was involved in this process and a representative of TNT Fireworks was the co-chair of this OFC Subcommittee.
OFCAB Recommendation – Unanimously recommended.
14. Fire Flow for Buildings in Unprotected Areas: Section B108 (Appendix B) Code Change Type – Addition
Purpose – Guides fire officials, primarily OSFM deputies, on water supply requirements for structures in unprotected areas, such as USFS or BLM land.
Background -- Section B108 has been “reserved" in the Oregon Fire Code for several cycles and primarily applies to OSFM deputies in areas outside fire protection districts. This appendix is adopted by the State of Oregon, making it a part of the OFC.
Amendment Summary – This new section references existing Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) rules for land use and planning. It directs owners to seek inclusion in a fire protection district and allows authorities to consider alternative water supply methods case by case. It also references statutory water supply requirements for public buildings, like places where people gather such schools, churches, grandstands, and state facilities.
Justification/Rationale – Adequate water supply and access are critical for fire protection, particularly in unprotected areas. This need has gained importance in recent years with a focus on defensible space, in addition to previously traditional needs for a water supply. This section provides guidance by referencing existing processes and resources, emphasizing the water supply need without introducing new requirements.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – As a reference to existing requirements, no fiscal or operational impacts are anticipated for jurisdictions or the public.
Stakeholder Input – Guidance only; no new requirements.
OFCAB Recommendation – Unanimously recommended.
15. Valet trash: Section 304.1.1 and Appendix O Code Change Type – New section
Purpose – Establishes safety requirements for apartment buildings using valet trash or recycling services, where materials are placed in exit corridors, addressing fire safety concerns.
Background -- This is the first appearance of regulations for valet trash in the fire code after years of consideration, debate and inconsistent enforcement by the International Code Council (ICC). While the fire service has been in strong opposition to valet trash, the VT industry has paid lobbyists, called “Directors of Governmental Affairs" to avoid universal mandates and exploit gaps in local adoption. In the end, the only requirement added to 2024 ICC code was the ability of fire code officials to decide which buildings valet trash service could take place (e.g., no buildings, sprinklered buildings, or all buildings). The word “sprinkler" is not used in the International Fire Code in the context of valet trash.
Specific requirements for safety inside those approved buildings were reserved in an appendix that could later be adopted at the state or local level. The fire prevention community has noted that this is a case study in how a well-funded industry can influence the code-making process intended to ensure the safety of those needing to get out of an older apartment building when it is on fire. Without a state-wide requirement, which buildings are approved for the service will be determined by each fire department.
Amendment Summary – Adopts Appendix O, giving it full Oregon Fire Code authority. It specifies requirements for trash and recycling container construction, corridor placement, duration, and tenant rules. Oregon additions include lid closure, documentation, and prohibitions on contents such as hazardous materials and batteries. An operational permit option was also added as an Oregon amendment.
Justification/Rationale – Exit corridors must remain unobstructed for safe egress during emergencies. The fire code clearly says that an exit corridor shall not be used for any other reason that would decrease that purpose. These regulations restore a level of safety to this egress component which will now be used in a way it was not intended (storing trash).
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No fiscal or operational impact anticipated.
Stakeholder Input – The Oregon Fire Code Subcommittee, composed of fire service members, proposed requiring sprinklers in corridors with valet trash. This was sent to seven stakeholders, including the valet trash industry, Oregon multifamily housing authorities, and refuse/recycling associations. The valet trash industry opposed the sprinkler requirement, while other responses were mixed.
OFCAB Recommendation – During the March OFCAB meeting, private industry provided comments concerning the original recommendation by the OFCC subcommittee to require sprinkler protection within the corridors of buildings utilizing Valet Trash. The OFCAB rejected the sprinkler requirement recommended by the OFCC subcommittee as a comprehensive amendment package, but unanimously approved Appendix O with all the other changes.
16. Special Amusement Areas: Section 3109 Code Change Type – New section
Purpose – Consolidates existing fire code requirements for special amusement areas, such as escape rooms and haunted houses (2022 OFC Appendix Q), a type of special amusement area, into a single section, incorporating for haunted houses.
Background – Recent Oregon Fire Code and Structural Specialty Code cycles have added safety requirements for special amusement areas such as “escape
rooms" and “haunted houses" that use maze-like corridors, now expanded from “buildings" to “areas" to include outdoor mazes like corn mazes.
Amendment Summary – Adds “Special Amusement Areas" to Chapter 31's title and creates Section 3109, referencing existing requirements for fire sprinklers, alarm systems, exit access travel distances, and permits. It incorporates 2022 OFC Appendix Q for haunted houses, reducing confusion and improving usability without creating any new code requirements.
Justification/Rationale – Consolidating requirements aids coordination with building officials for seasonal or temporary uses and clarifies distinctions between often confused terms “special amusement areas" and “special event structures".
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
Stakeholder Input – None, as no new regulations are introduced.
OFCAB Recommendation – Unanimously approved.
17. Intermodal shipping containers: Section 315.4.3 Code Change Type – Addition
Purpose – Establishes a fire code citation for maintaining intermodal shipping containers, commonly called “conex" units, complementing Oregon Structural Specialty Code (OSSC) requirements.
Background – Proposed by an external applicant and the original proposal was deemed too broad in scope, the OSFM Technical Services Unit developed a maintenance-focused section to align with 2022 and 2025 OSSC updates, providing many of the safeguards first intended. The proposal provides a pointer back to the existing OSSC language for the fire code official to provide a more focused enforcement aspect.
Amendment Summary – Creates Section 315.4.3 to cite maintenance requirements for intermodal shipping containers permitted under the 2025 OSSC. It also addresses existing fire code conditions, such as hazardous materials limits and product listing requirements.
Justification/Rationale – Aligns the fire code with OSSC requirements, enabling fire inspectors to ensure safe use of intermodal shipping containers without introducing new regulations.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No fiscal or operational impact anticipated.
Stakeholder Input – No new regulations; dialogue between OSFM and Building Codes Division ensured alignment with 2025 OSSC requirements.
OFCAB Recommendation – Unanimously approved.
- Bridge Maintenance: Section 503.2.6 Code Change Type – Modification
Purpose – Updates bridge maintenance standards in the Oregon Fire Code to align with Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) standards and practices.
Background – The International Fire Code (IFC) references AASHTO HB17 for bridge maintenance, but ODOT uses updated standards critical for fire department access with heavy apparatus.
Amendment Summary – Replaces AASHTO HB17 with ODOT's “AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications" for new bridges and “ODOT Bridge Maintenance Design Manual" for existing bridges.
Justification/Rationale – Aligns the fire code with current ODOT standards to ensure reliable access for emergency apparatus.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No anticipated impact on either the jurisdiction or the public.
Stakeholder Input – Dialogue between ODOT and OSFM ensured accurate standard references.
OFCAB Recommendation – Unanimously approved.
19. Solar Farm (Ground-mounted PV panel systems) maintenance: Section 1205.5
Code Change Type – Addition
Purpose – Provides fire code officials with authority to enforce existing National Electrical Code (NEC) maintenance requirements for large private solar farms.
Background – Proposed by an Oregon fire department after 2024 wildland fires were caused by deteriorated solar farm equipment in larger privately-owned facilities, and overgrown vegetation. This amendment clarifies NEC requirements not directly referenced in the 2024 International Fire Code. While not opposed to the recommendation as submitted, the OSFM Technical Services Unit (TSU) wrote a revised concise version retaining the originals key components. Both versions were presented to the OFCAB.
Amendment Summary – Updates Section 1205.5 to include maintenance requirements, allowing fire code officials to mandate increased clear areas around panels based on site conditions such as wind and slope. Adds a subsection for large private solar farms, requiring qualified maintenance staff, construction documentation, owner's manuals, and a fire risk mitigation plan addressing arc faults, access, and water supplies.
Justification/Rationale – With increasing solar farm prevalence, this amendment mitigates fire hazards from aging equipment and vegetation growth, enhancing fire department oversight.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No impact, as requirements align with existing NEC standards.
Stakeholder Input – Industry was contacted concerning this code recommendation and industry did not have any comments.
OFCAB Recommendation – Unanimously approved the OSFM TSU revised version.
20. Aerial Fire Apparatus Access Road Building Proximity: Appendix D105.3 Code Change Type – Modification
Purpose – Allows fire code officials to designate access road locations based on the need to reach a building's corner for aerial ladder operations.
Background – The Oregon Fire Code Committee identified that International Fire Code language does not explicitly address access to building corners, critical for aerial ladder placement.
Amendment Summary – Adds “or corner" to Appendix D105.3, specifying that access roads may be designated to reach a building's corner.
Justification/Rationale – Fire departments often position aerial ladders at building corners, for example the A/B corner for roof access, and this change enhances firefighter safety by clarifying this need.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No impact on either the jurisdiction or owners.
Stakeholder Input – None.
OFCAB Recommendation – Unanimously approved.
21. Section 1006.3.4.2 – Single-exit Stairway for Group R-2 dwelling units Code Change Type – New section
Purpose – Supports 2025 Oregon Structural Specialty Code (OSSC) Appendix Q which provides provisions allowing a single exit stairway to serve certain apartment buildings not greater than four stories above grade plane.
Background – HB 3395 (2023) required the Building Codes Division (BCD) to adopt amendments to the OSSC to allow construction of these types of buildings to help meet Oregon's affordable housing needs. BCD held meetings during its code adoption process in the summer of 2024, creating its Appendix Q.
Amendment Summary – Our OFC amendment duplicates a part of the OSSC requirements in their Appendix Q. It states that the “local fire service" may approve the adoption of Appendix Q by the local building official, with its provisions to allow single stair exits.
Justification/Rationale – All BCD structural amendments to Chapter 10, “Means of Egress" of the OSSC, are duplicated in the Oregon Fire Code.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – This change effects the fire service in several ways. First, it places the initial decision to allow single stair apartments within
the jurisdiction of a local building official on the fire department or fire departments. Ultimately, it may also require those fire departments to alter their IGA with that building official as required by ORS 455.150. Last, and most importantly, it is still unclear if the fire department has the authority to disapprove of a proposed new apartment building based on site conditions on a case-by-case basis. The lack of being able to make that determination could severely impact the fire department's ability to conduct effective fireground operations with tall ladders at multi-family housing with only one way out and.
Stakeholder Input – All stakeholder meetings on the structural change for the building code were conducted by BCD. As a structural change, no stakeholder input was required from OSFM.
BCD Structures Board Recommendation – Unanimously recommended approval of OSSC Appendix Q.
22. Oregon Appendix Amendments Relocated
Purpose – Reformats Oregon-specific appendices to align with potential 2027 International Fire Code (IFC) expansions.
Background – Oregon's appendices follow the IFC's lettering format (e.g., Appendix D-Fire Apparatus Access Roads). With the 2024 IFC using Appendix O, only one reserved letter remains before Oregon's Appendix Q, necessitating relocation to avoid conflicts.
Amendment Summary – Relocates four Oregon appendices: Appendix Q (Haunted Houses) to Section 3109 (Special Amusement Areas); Appendix R (Adult Foster Homes) to Chapter 49; Appendix S (Tank Vehicle to Tank Vehicle Fuel Transfer at Airports) to Section 2008 (Chapter 28, Aviation Facilities); and Appendix T (Fire Watch) to Chapter 19. No substantive changes to requirements.
Justification/Rationale – Relocating Oregon only appendices that are a mandatory part of the fire code (no option for locals to adopt) to the main code body, ensures clarity and preempts conflicts with future ICC expansions.
Fiscal or Operational Impact – No impact on either the jurisdiction or owners.
Stakeholder Input – None, as this is a format change.
OFCAB Recommendation – Unanimously approved.
Conclusion
This executive summary is designed to assist the State Fire Marshal and other code users in identifying the specific code changes that have occurred and, more importantly, in understanding the reasons behind the changes. It may also serve as a valuable resource for fire service jurisdictions to help them explain the significance and impact of the changes as they go through their local code adoption process.
The code changes selected in this executive summary were identified for several reasons, including their frequency of application, special significance or change in application within our state.