Applicability

Columbus City Codes § 2501.02

in effect

2501.02 - Applicability 2501.02.1 New and existing conditions. The provisions of this code shall apply equally to new and existing buildings and conditions, as hereinafter provided except that existing conditions not in strict compliance with the requirements of this code may be permitted to continue where the exceptions do not constitute a distinct hazard to life or property. Modifications of this code are subject to Section 2501.04.6 of this code. Exceptions. The provisions contained in this code shall not be construed as applying to the transportation of any article or substance shipped under the jurisdiction of and in compliance with the regulations prescribed by the military forces of the United States. 2501.02.1.1 Existing buildings. Buildings built under, and in full compliance with the codes in force at the time of construction or alteration thereof, and that have been properly maintained and used for such use as originally permitted, shall be exempt from the requirements of this code pertaining to: 2501.02.1.2 Fire protection of structural elements. Fire protection of structural elements except as provided for existing buildings under the building code. However, if the fire code official determines that the inadequacy or absence of fire protection for the protection of structural elements constitutes a distinct hazard to life or property, the fire code official may order fire protection equipment to be provided. 2501.02.1.3 Exits. Exits required, except as provided for existing buildings under this code and the building code. 2501.02.1.4 Isolation of hazardous operations. Isolation of hazardous operations; provided, however, that the fire code official may require the installation of fire safety devices or systems (fire extinguishers, fire alarms, fire detection devices, sprinklers or similar systems) where, such devices or systems are necessary to provide safety to life and property. In lieu of requiring the installation of safety devices or systems, or when necessary to secure safety in addition thereto, the fire code official may prescribe limitations on the handling and storage of materials or substances or upon operations that are liable to cause fire, contribute to the spread of fire, or endanger life or property. 2501.02.2 Ohio Building Code. The fire code official shall enforce all provisions of the Ohio Basic Building Code relating to fire prevention. 2501.02.2.1 Application of building codes. The planning, design and construction of new buildings and structures to provide the necessary egress facilities, fire protection and built-in fire protection equipment shall be controlled by the building code of the jurisdiction; and any alterations, additions or changes in buildings required by the provisions of this code which are within the scope of the building code shall be made in accordance therewith. 2501.02.3 Conflict between requirements. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall prevail. 2501.02.4 Subjects not regulated by this code. Where applicable standards or requirements are not set forth in this code, or are contained in other laws, codes, regulations, ordinances or bylaws adopted by the jurisdiction, compliance with applicable standards of the National Fire Protection Association or other nationally recognized fire safety standards, as approved, shall be deemed as prima facie evidence of compliance with the intent of this code. Nothing herein shall derogate from the authority of the fire code official to determine compliance with codes or standards for those activities or installations within the fire coded official's jurisdiction or responsibility. 2501.02.5 Matters not provided for. Requirements that are essential for the public safety of an existing or proposed activity, event, building, structure, vehicle or for the safety of the occupants thereof, that are not specifically provided for by this code, shall be determined by the fire code official. 2501.02.6 Applicability of other laws. Nothing in this code shall be construed, interpreted or applied to abrogate, nullify or abolish any law, ordinance or code adopted by the jurisdiction governing the construction, alteration, addition, repair, removal, demolition, use, location, occupancy and maintenance of buildings specifically provided herein. When any provision of this code is found to be in conflict with any building, zoning, safety, health or other applicable law, ordinance or code of the jurisdiction existing on the effective date of this code or hereafter adopted, the provision of which establishes the higher standard for the promotion and protection of the safety and welfare of the public shall prevail. (Ord. No. 1652-2022, § 1, 10-17-2022)

Source: City of Columbus, City Codes and City Charter (Municode Library, library.municode.com)URL: https://library.municode.com/oh/columbus/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT25FIPRCO_CH2501SCAD_2501.02APFetched: 10/27/2026