New Hamilton County fire code regulations spark concerns about growth

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) – Every new development in Hamilton County has a series of regulations to meet before they are built. This week, Hamilton County Commission approved new fire code regulations that may affect future development.

Commissioners approved the resolution by a 7-to-4 vote that lowers the distance between new entrances to subdivisions to 300 feet.

Previously, this line was higher at 1500 feet.

These rules are regulated through Appendix D of the International Fire Code as follows:

“Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses.”

Emergency officials say these rules are important especially with the geographical challenges of Hamilton County compared to other areas.

“The way international fire code is written; Knoxville, Middle Tennessee, they’re flat, that can work there,” said Director of Hamilton County Emergency Services Chris Adams. “But what works there doesn’t work here or we can stop all growth in Hamilton County forever, and I don’t want to be the one to do that. I want to be open to growth, but it should be a minimum of 300 feet, and I don’t want to go any lower than that. So, if someone can’t get under 300 feet, we really shouldn’t be putting subdivisions in there.”

Some commissioners voiced concern over the resolution.

Commissioner for District 9 Dr. Steve Highlander said, “I have spoken, reached out and got a couple of legal opinions of people who didn’t want their names used. They agreed with a statement I made last week that this would put us under a much bigger chance of liability for suit.”

Developers however defended the resolution.

“We’re making it more safe where the fire marshal can’t go below that and we’re fine in the development community to not go below that line.”, said developer Mike Price.

Residents like Kim Helton say they are concerned.

Helton said, “If a tornado, gas leak, chemical spill, wreck, block both entrances, how will emergency vehicles get in and residents get out?… Safety should come before private profits.”

The new rules go into effect immediately and will be in place for next week’s Regional Planning Agency meeting.