The 2017 Ohio Fire Code has been validated by JCARR and will become effective on Dec. 15. The 2017 version of the Ohio Fire Code is essentially the International Code Council’s 2015 International Fire Code with the incorporation of certain relevant provisions of that code. Education opportunities on the new code will be available in spring 2018. Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (B)(1)(b) (102.1.2) of this rule, the construction and design provisions of this code shall apply to: (emphasis by me)
- Structures, facilities and conditions ARISING AFTER THE ADOPTION OF THIS CODE. This includes structures, facilities and conditions exempt from or not otherwise subject to Chapters 3781. or 3791. of the Revised Code.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions not legally in existence at the time of the adoption of this code.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions not in strict compliance with the requirements of this code, regardless of whether such location is in substantial compliance with the applicable version of the building code listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code, where the conditions constitute a distinct hazard to life or property in the opinion of the fire code official, including existing structures subject to rule 1301:7-7-11 of the Administrative Code. If a distinct hazard to life or property cannot be proven by the fire official by a preponderance of the evidence, the provisions of this code shall not apply to an existing building or condition. This includes structures, facilities and conditions exempt from or not otherwise subject to Chapters 3781. or 3791. of the Revised Code.