Phoenix Commercial Flat Roof Regulations 2024: New Fire Safety Requirements for High-Rise Buildings
The Phoenix commercial roofing landscape has undergone significant changes with the implementation of new fire safety regulations in 2024, particularly affecting high-rise buildings with flat roof systems. These updated requirements, stemming from the 2024 Phoenix Building Construction Code (PBCC) that took effect on August 1, 2025, represent a comprehensive effort to enhance building safety standards and protect both occupants and emergency responders.
Understanding the 2024 Phoenix Building Construction Code Updates
This update reflects Phoenix’s ongoing commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring structures are constructed using best practices and designed for longevity. The new regulations specifically address commercial flat roof systems, which are commonly found in Phoenix’s growing commercial and industrial sectors.
The amendments to the 2018 International Fire Code with Phoenix Amendments became effective May 4, 2024 as adopted by Ordinance Number G-7242, introducing stricter requirements for fire protection systems and emergency response capabilities in high-rise buildings.
High-Rise Building Fire Safety Requirements
For high-rise commercial buildings, the new regulations mandate enhanced fire protection systems. Two-way hard-wired communication systems are now required in high-rise buildings, with wired fire department communication systems that operate between fire command centers, elevators, elevator lobbies, emergency and standby power rooms, fire pump rooms, areas of refuge and inside interior exit stairways.
Buildings with specific characteristics face additional requirements. The total building area is greater than 50,000 square feet and any building with a basement or underground level(s) must comply with enhanced fire safety protocols. This policy applies to all new high-rise buildings with occupied floor more than 120 feet above the lowest level of fire department access.
Flat Roof Fire Safety Considerations
Flat roofs present unique fire safety challenges that the new regulations specifically address. Fire safety is a critical consideration in building design, with flat roofs posing particular risks. The flat surface can allow fires to spread rapidly across the roof, and if not properly constructed or maintained, flat roofs can become weak points in a building’s fire resistance.
The regulations now require that roof coverings must resist the spread of fire. Materials used should meet standards specified in Approved Document B, which outlines the fire resistance properties required for roofing materials. Additionally, buildings must have fire-resistant barriers or walls that compartmentalise different sections, including the roof.
Emergency Response and Access Requirements
The 2024 regulations emphasize improved emergency response capabilities. It is crucial to provide access points, such as roof hatches, that allow firefighters to reach the roof quickly during an emergency. When in-building radio signal strength fails to meet the minimum requirements of the Phoenix Fire Code, ERRCS shall be provided. These systems are also referred to as Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) and Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS). ERRCS shall be designed, installed, maintained, and repaired by qualified personnel to ensure that they meet the coverage reliability requirements of the PFC and NFPA 1225.
Compliance and Professional Installation
Given the complexity of these new regulations, property owners and developers must work with qualified roofing professionals who understand Phoenix’s specific requirements. Professional installation ensures compliance with building code requirements and helps streamline the inspection process.
For commercial property owners in Phoenix seeking expert guidance on these new regulations, working with an experienced Roofing Contractor in Phoenix, AZ is essential. Professional contractors provide trained and skilled professionals, committed to do the job correctly, reliably and honestly. They create a company environment of communication and teamwork with dedication to honor commitments, answer for actions and be responsible for results, performing at the highest level of professionalism, safety and workmanship necessary to assure quality outcomes that stand the test of time.
Material Standards and Specifications
The updated regulations specify particular material requirements for flat roof systems. Roof coverings must meet specific fire resistance standards, classified under European or British standards, and incorporating fire stops and barriers in flat roofs is essential to prevent the spread of fire across the roof surface.
Commercial buildings must also consider reflective roofing materials that meet energy efficiency standards while maintaining fire safety compliance. Low-sloped roof surfaces over conditioned and unconditioned spaces in Climate Zones 0 through 3 shall comply with minimum 3-year aged solar reflectance of 0.55 and minimum 3-year aged thermal emittance of 0.75, or minimum 3-year aged solar reflectance index (SRI) of 64.
Implementation Timeline and Enforcement
The new code took effect August 1, 2025, and includes a grace period for projects already in the pipeline. The Fire Prevention Division enforces fire safety codes and standards within the city to ensure compliance with regulations related to building construction, fire protection systems, and other safety measures.
Property owners should begin planning for compliance immediately, as retrofitting existing buildings to meet new standards can be complex and time-consuming. Professional roofing contractors can assess current systems and recommend necessary upgrades to ensure full compliance with the new regulations.
Moving Forward with Confidence
The 2024 Phoenix commercial flat roof regulations represent a significant step forward in building safety and fire protection. While these requirements may seem daunting, they ultimately protect property investments, ensure occupant safety, and provide peace of mind for building owners and tenants alike.
By working with experienced professionals who understand both the technical requirements and local building codes, commercial property owners can navigate these changes successfully while maintaining operational efficiency and regulatory compliance. The investment in proper fire safety systems and compliant roofing materials pays dividends in terms of reduced insurance costs, enhanced property values, and most importantly, the safety of all building occupants.