Bill > H2679

This bill proposes several technical amendments to Massachusetts fire protection and building safety regulations, primarily focusing on replacing references to the "state building code" with "state fire code" across multiple sections of state law. The bill introduces new definitions for "Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems" and "Fire Safety Code," and clarifies that fire safety regulations will apply to all buildings and structures owned or controlled by the Commonwealth, except the State House. The State Fire Marshal is granted explicit authority to enforce the State Fire Code in state-owned or controlled buildings. Additionally, the bill creates a new provision allowing individuals who are aggrieved by a fire department head's interpretation or actions to appeal to an automatic sprinkler appeals board within 45 days. The legislation also empowers the Board of Fire Prevention Regulations to establish standards for fire protection and life safety systems in new or substantially modified buildings. These changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2017, and will not apply to buildings that received permits before that date, ensuring a clear transition period for existing construction projects.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2679