Fire Regulations in Reading, PA

If you live in Reading or are thinking about moving there, fire regulations are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Reading has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of fire regulations, and some of them might surprise you.

Fireworks

Reading bans igniting consumer fireworks on City streets, sidewalks or property without a Fire Chief permit, and flatly prohibits all aerial fireworks, including mortar shells, mortar cakes, bottle rockets and Roman candles, regardless of distance from any structure. Selling fireworks in the City requires a State license and a City operational permit.

Key details: Governing law: Reading Codified Ordinances Chapter 225. Aerial fireworks: Strictly prohibited at any distance. Consumer fireworks: Permit required from Fire Chief. Public display bond: $1,000,000 insurance or bond minimum. Max fine: $500 plus up to 90 days jail.

Any violation of Chapter 225 is a summary offense punishable on conviction by a fine of up to $500 before a Magisterial District Judge, plus up to 90 days in jail if the fine isn't paid, with each day of continued violation a separate offense under Section 225-107. Fireworks found in violation are seized by the Reading Police Department, and the owner is liable for the costs of removing, transporting, storing and disposing of them.

Compared to other cities, Reading takes a harder line on fireworks. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Outdoor Burning

Reading requires a Fire Code Official permit before anyone ignites, causes to be ignited, or maintains any open burning in the City, under a 2021 amendment to the adopted International Fire Code. The Office of the Fire Marshal enforces the Fire Prevention Code and administers the permit.

Key details: Governing law: Reading Codified Ordinances § 180-1407, Item VV. Adopted code: International Fire Code, 2021 Edition. Permit required from: City Fire Code Official. Enforcing office: Dept. of Fire and Rescue, Fire Marshal. Obstruction fine: Up to $500, 90 days jail.

Igniting, causing to be ignited, or maintaining open burning without first securing a Fire Code Official permit violates the amended IFC Section 301.2, enforced as part of the adopted Fire Prevention Code by the Office of the Fire Marshal. Obstructing the Fire Marshal's enforcement of the Code is separately a summary offense carrying a fine of up to $500 and up to 90 days in jail if unpaid, under Section 180-1406(F).

Compared to other cities, Reading takes a harder line on outdoor burning. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Smoke Detectors

Existing 3-to-9-unit Group R-2 rental buildings in Reading must have hardwired, interconnected smoke alarms in common areas plus alarms in every sleeping area and story under a local Fire Code amendment.

Key details: Applies to: existing R-2, 3-9 units. Common areas: hardwired, interconnected alarms. In-unit: alarms per sleeping area, story. 10+ units: full building alarm system.

Fire Code violations are summary offenses under amended § 112.4: a fine of $500 to $1,000, plus up to 90 days imprisonment if unpaid, enforced by the Office of Fire Marshal/fire and building official.

The Bottom Line

Reading is tougher than many cities when it comes to fire regulations. Out of the 3 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Reading, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Reading's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.