Hackensack City Council introduced an ordinance to add a new section to the city's fire-prevention code addressing lithium-ion batteries, citing a nationwide rise in fires tied to battery storage and use.

"This is an ordinance regarding fire prevention for lithium ion batteries," the presenter said, noting recent fires linked to storage and purchase of these batteries and characterizing the change as part of a national trend to reduce the risk of batteries ``exploding or catching fire inside of structures.'' The ordinance, introduced as Ordinance 37-20-25, would add section 88-13 to Chapter 88 of the city code to prohibit the sale and private use of second-use lithium-ion batteries in new or existing businesses and to set guidelines and storage requirements for sellers and users of lithium-ion-battery-powered mobility devices.

Why it matters: Lithium-ion battery fires have prompted municipalities and fire authorities nationwide to set storage, sale and handling rules for consumer and mobility-device batteries. The local ordinance would create municipal standards for sellers and users and offers a regulatory tool for the City of Hackensack’s fire-prevention enforcement.

Discussion versus decision: The ordinance was introduced and passed on first reading; a public hearing and final adoption will occur at the council’s scheduled meeting for final consideration. The transcript contains no roll-call vote tallies beyond the voice vote recording the ordinance’s introduction.

Next steps: The ordinance returns for final passage at the Aug. 11, 2025 meeting; the fire department and code enforcement will likely be charged with implementing any new storage and sale requirements once the ordinance is adopted.