2025 Stanhope Fire Ordinance

Borough of Stanhope

Sussex County, New Jersey

ORDINANCE NO. 2025-03

AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE,

SUSSEX COUNTY, NEW JERSEY AMENDING CHAPTER 15, FIRE DEPARTMENT

OF THE CODE OF THE BOROUGH OF STANHOPE

WHEREAS, the Borough Code needs updating and revisions regarding the Borough

Volunteer Fire Department; and

WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council reviewed the have decided to revise the Borough

Code regarding the Fire Department, as follows.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of

Stanhope, Sussex County, New Jersey as follows:

SECTION 1.

Chapter 15, Fire Department of the Code of the Borough of Stanhope shall be and is hereby

deleted in its entirety and replaced as follows:

Chapter 15. Fire Department.

§15.1 Establishment

The Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department is hereby established with jurisdictional

boundaries that coincide with those of the Borough of Stanhope.

§15.2 Composition

The Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department shall consist of a single company known

as "Stanhope Hose Company No. 1." The Fire Department may adopt such Standard

Operating Procedures (“SOP”) as it deems appropriate for its government.

§15.3 Control and oversight by Council; appropriations.

The Fire Department shall be subject to the direct control and oversight of the Stanhope

Borough Council. The Borough Council may appropriate such sums of money as authorized

by law and as each governing body deems proper, on an annual basis, to fund the

operations and capital expenses of the Fire Department, in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:14-

34.

§15-4 Probationary and Regular Membership Qualifications; Appointment and

Dismissal; Duties

Any individual who is a resident of the Borough or resides within a contiguous municipality

(per Department SOP), is a citizen of the United States, is at least 18 years of age, has

obtained a high school diploma or GED, is of good character, able to pass a background

investigation and interview process, and is physically fit to perform the duties of a Fire

Department member, as evidenced by a certificate from certified physician following an

examination, shall be eligible for appointment as a probationary member of the Fire

Department. Any such medical information shall be collected and kept confidential in

accordance with SOPs. Additionally, the individual must meet all relevant New Jersey State

requirements, and the standards set forth by the National Fire Protection Association

(NFPA).

Each eligible candidate shall be recommended by the Company and approved by the

Borough Council. Upon approval, the candidate shall serve an initial probationary period of

12 months after they have satisfied the State’s minimum training requirements.

Probationary and regular members of the Fire Department shall be assigned duties as

outlined in the Fire Department rules and regulations, in accordance with New Jersey State

laws and NFPA standards.

Any member of the Fire Department may be dismissed, suspended, or relieved from duty

for not meeting the Fire Department rules and regulations (as determined solely by the

Department, in accordance with its Standard Operating Procedures), as well as New Jersey

State laws and NFPA standards established for this purpose.

§15.5 Junior Firefighter Auxiliary

A Junior Firefighter’s Auxiliary Company (hereinafter the "Auxiliary Company") to the Fire

Department is hereby established and is subject to the supervision and control of the Fire

Chief. The members of the Auxiliary Company shall be known as "junior members."

Junior members shall meet all the qualifications of regular members of the Fire

Department, with the exception that their age requirements are as defined per N.J.S.A.

40A:14-98, as may be amended. A junior firefighter may perform non-hazardous support

duties at a fire site, so long as they have been appropriately and adequately trained to

perform the support duties and are appropriately and adequately supervised in performing

those support duties at the fire site. A junior fireman shall be limited to attending meetings

of the Junior Firefighter's Auxiliary, receiving instruction, participating in training that does

not involve fire, smoke, toxic or noxious gas, or hazardous materials or substances, and

observing firefighting activities, while under supervision.

Junior members are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, or a “C” average and may

not be failing any class. Any member who receives a GPA below 2.0 or a failing grade for

any class, shall be required to take an automatic temporary leave of absence from their

firefighter duties and will not be permitted to attend any fire department functions, nor

shall they be permitted at the station, until such time that they can prove that the grade(s)

has been improved. Proof of improvement in the form of a report card or written letter

from the course instructor shall be required.

Any person seeking to become a junior member must apply and be appointed in the same

manner as a member of the Fire Department. Any person before being considered for

membership in the Auxiliary Company must obtain notarized permission to join the

auxiliary from their parents or guardian if under the age of 18 and must submit to the Fire

Chief said notarized permission in writing and acknowledged or approved in the manner

required by law.

Junior members shall be insured by the same coverage and in the same amounts provided

for the members of the Fire Department.

Junior members shall be trained for eventual membership in the Fire Department in

accordance with the general and special orders that the Fire Chief may promulgate for said

purpose. Junior members shall not operate any Fire Department vehicle or apparatus.

Junior members shall be subject to all provisions of this Chapter and shall be subject to

suspension or dismissal as provided for by Department Standard Operating Procedures

and/or general or special orders issued by the Fire Chief for said purposes.

§15.6 Required Duty

All Fire Department members are required to fulfill at least 40% of their duties annually if

they are non-exempt members and 30% if they are exempt members. The duties are as

established each year by the Chief. To participate in these duties, each member must meet

all the minimum requirements of a firefighter as defined by the NJ Division of Fire Safety,

have satisfactory passed their annual mask fit test, and have current firefighting personal

protective equipment (PPE) (“Required Duty”). The actual duties include attendance and

active participation in fires and drills. The Chief of the Fire Department is responsible for

maintaining records of attendance and reporting them monthly to the Borough Clerk.

Members can earn up to an additional 10% credit by participating in approved extra credit

activities listed below. These activities must be formally approved in advance by the Chief

to ensure alignment with the organization's standards and objectives.

Examples of approved firematic extra credit activities include, but are not limited:

1. Annual Sussex County Firefighter Parade

2. Hackettstown and Newton St. Patrick’s Day Parades

3. Stanhope Borough Halloween Parade

4. Stanhope HSA Trunk or Treat

5. Annual Fire Awareness/Prevention Training at the local schools

6. Annual Stanhope Borough Tree Lighting

7. Annual Holiday Santa Run

8. Annual Hose and Apparatus Testing

9. Annual Memorial Day Parade (Stanhope or Byram)

10. Annual Netcong Holiday Parade

11. Any other firematic duties as approved by the Chief

§15.7 Associate and Inactive Life Members

Members who do not meet the Required Duty standards may participate in non-firematic

activities as either Associate Members or Inactive Life Members. These members are

permitted to attend meetings, participate in fundraisers, attend social events, and vote on

non-firematic matters. However, they are prohibited from engaging in firematic activities

unless they meet the minimum standards for Required Duty.

§15.8 Exempt Certificates

Members of the Fire Department can qualify for an exempt fireman certificate if, at the time

of their appointment, they met the requirements of N.J.S.A. 40A:14-56, were between 18

and 58 years of age, and completed 40% of fire duty each year over a period of seven years,

in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40A:14-56.

§15.9 Application for Membership

Prospective members must apply to the fire company. Upon selection to membership, the

individual shall be recognized as a member in good standing of the Fire Department. The

election of new members must be promptly reported to the Borough Clerk, who will

maintain an accurate and up-to-date record of all members. Members are exercising a

governmental function, per N.J.S.A. 40A:14-68.

§15.10 Elected Officers

To be eligible for an elected officer position within the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire

Department, candidates must have served a minimum of three years as an active member.

Additionally, they must meet all State requirements and fulfill the Department's minimum

duty requirements. Furthermore, no individual may serve in an officer role unless these

criteria are met in full.

The Department shall elect a Chief, First Assistant Chief, Second Assistant Chief, Captain,

Lieutenant, Fire Police Captain, and Fire Police Lieutenant, from among members who meet

the minimum duty requirements and the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety standards for

their respective roles. All elected officers are elected to serve a one-year term.

Nominations for officers will take place in October. Only qualified candidates who meet the

minimum duty requirements and the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety standards on the

nomination date may be nominated and considered for election. Election of officers will

take place in November.

The Chief is limited to a maximum of four consecutive one-year terms, with eligibility for

reappointment after a two-year break in service. These officers are tasked with ensuring

the Department conducts an annual review of Pre-Incident Planning (per NFPA 1620), Risk

Assessment and Risk Reduction Plan (per NFPA 1300), firefighter qualifications (per NFPA

1001 and NJ Division of Fire Safety standards), and compliance with PPE standards (per

NFPA 1851). Only firefighters who meet the minimum duty requirements and New Jersey

Division of Fire Safety standards may vote during the election of fire officers. A compliance

report, signed by the Chief, First Assistant Chief, and Second Assistant Chief, must be

submitted annually to the Borough Clerk for review by the governing body.

§15.11 Removal of Officers and Firefighters

Any officer or firefighter shall be subject to removal for just cause upon charges brought by

the Fire Chief or their designee; if charges concern the Chief, such charges may be brough

by the Assistant Chiefs. Charges may be brought against the Chief based upon a majority

vote of all eligible members. The officer or firefighter charged may request a hearing within

10 days of receiving the charges. The Borough Council shall designate a hearing officer who

shall consider the sworn testimony of all witnesses and other evidence presented. Hearings

may be conducted informally, and the formal rules of evidence need not apply. At the

conclusion of the hearing, the hearing officer shall make his written report and

recommendations to the Borough Council. The decision of the Borough Council shall be

final.

Any firefighter who does not meet the minimum duty requirements and NJ Division of Fire

Safety requirements, will initially be placed on probation for a three-month period. The

firefighter may return to active duty once they have successfully achieved the required

standards, demonstrated minimum percentage for a period of three consecutive months,

and demonstrates basic firefighter skills commiserative with their level within the fire

department.

§15.12 Duties of the Fire Chief

The Fire Chief of the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department holds the highest

position of authority within the department and is responsible for the following key duties:

1. Overall Command: The Fire Chief is the primary leader and decision-maker within

the department, responsible for commanding all firefighting operations, emergency

responses, and training exercises. The Chief ensures that all activities are conducted

safely, efficiently, and in accordance with departmental policies and state

regulations.

2. Strategic Planning: The Fire Chief is responsible for developing and implementing

the strategic direction of the department. This includes long-term planning for

resources, personnel, training, and equipment to ensure the department meets

current and future needs.

3. Policy and Procedure Development: The Fire Chief establishes and enforces

departmental policies and procedures. The Chief ensures that all members of the

department adhere to these guidelines, which are designed to promote safety,

efficiency, and professionalism.

4. Personnel Management: The Fire Chief oversees the recruitment, training, and

development of all department personnel. This includes evaluating the performance

of officers and firefighters, making promotion recommendations, and ensuring that

all members meet the required qualifications and standards.

5. Budget Management: The Fire Chief is responsible for preparing and managing the

department's budget. This includes allocating funds for equipment, training,

personnel, and other resources, as well as seeking additional funding or grants

when necessary.

6. Interagency Coordination: The Fire Chief serves as the department's primary

liaison with other emergency services, governmental agencies, and mutual aid

partners. The Chief ensures effective collaboration and communication with these

entities during joint operations and emergency responses.

7. Public Relations and Community Engagement: The Fire Chief represents the

department in the community, promoting fire safety and prevention through public

education programs and outreach efforts. The Chief also serves as the department's

spokesperson, communicating with the media and the public during major

incidents.

8. Emergency Response Oversight: The Fire Chief takes command of major

emergency incidents, coordinating the deployment of resources, directing

firefighting and rescue operations, and making critical decisions that affect the

outcome of the response.

9. Compliance and Reporting: The Fire Chief is responsible for ensuring that the

department complies with all applicable NFPA standards, state regulations, and

local ordinances. The Chief must submit regular reports to the Borough Council and

other governing bodies, detailing the department's activities, compliance status, and

any significant incidents or issues.

10. Risk Management and Safety: The Fire Chief oversees the department's risk

management program, ensuring that all operations are conducted safely and that

potential hazards are identified and mitigated. The Chief is also responsible for the

health and safety of all department personnel, including the implementation of

occupational health programs and ensuring compliance with NFPA 1500 and NFPA

1582 standards.

11. Pre-Incident Planning and Review: The Fire Chief ensures that the department

maintains up-to-date pre-incident plans for key locations within the community.

The Chief also oversees the regular review and updating of these plans, as well as

the department's Risk Assessment and Risk Reduction Plan in accordance with

NFPA 1300.

12. Reporting to the Borough: The Fire Chief is responsible for providing monthly and

annual reports to the Borough Administrator and Council detailing the department's

firematic activities, training, and compliance with safety and operational standards.

13. Succession Planning: The Fire Chief is responsible for mentoring and developing

the next generation of leaders within the department, ensuring that there is a clear

and effective succession plan in place for key positions.

The Fire Chief is expected to perform these duties with the highest level of integrity,

leadership, and commitment to the safety and well-being of both the department's

personnel and the community it serves.

The Fire Chief is authorized to appoint additional officers each year, as deemed necessary

to support the effective operation of the department. These appointments are at the Chief's

discretion and each appointee must meet the minimum requirements of the position they

are being appointed to. These may include roles such as Engineer, Training Officer, Safety

Officer, Health and Wellness Officer, or any other positions that the Chief determines are

essential to ensuring that all aspects of the department's mission are adequately managed.

These roles are intended to enhance the department's capabilities and ensure that the team

is fully equipped to meet its operational and safety needs. In addition, the Chief may

appoint any other officers if there are any vacancies following the annual election.

§15.13 Duties of the Assistant Chiefs

The Assistant Chiefs of the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department play crucial roles

in supporting the Fire Chief and ensuring the effective operation of the department. The

duties of the First Assistant Chief and the Second Assistant Chief are as follows:

First Assistant Chief

1. Assume Command in Chief’s Absence:

o The First Assistant Chief is the second-in-command and assumes all

responsibilities of the Fire Chief in their absence. This includes commanding

emergency incidents, overseeing department operations, and making critical

decisions.

2. Support and Assist the Fire Chief:

o The First Assistant Chief assists the Fire Chief in the development and

implementation of departmental policies, procedures, and strategic plans.

This includes contributing to budget preparation, resource allocation, and

personnel management.

3. Training and Development Oversight:

o The First Assistant Chief is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the

training programs within the department. This includes ensuring that all

firefighters meet the required qualifications, certifications, and participate in

regular drills and training exercises.

4. Operational Readiness:

o The First Assistant Chief ensures that all equipment, apparatus, and personal

protective gear are maintained and ready for immediate use. The Assistant

Chief conducts regular inspections and addresses any deficiencies promptly.

5. Safety and Compliance:

o The First Assistant Chief works closely with the Fire Chief to ensure that the

department complies with all applicable NFPA standards, state regulations,

and departmental policies. This includes overseeing safety protocols and

conducting risk assessments.

6. Incident Reporting and Documentation:

o The First Assistant Chief is responsible for assisting with the documentation

of all incidents, training exercises, and departmental activities. This includes

preparing reports for the Fire Chief and ensuring that records are accurate

and up-to-date.

7. Community Engagement:

o The First Assistant Chief plays a role in community outreach and public

education programs, representing the department at public events and

promoting fire safety and prevention.

8. Mentorship and Leadership:

o The First Assistant Chief mentors junior officers and firefighters, providing

guidance and support to help them develop their skills and advance within

the department. The Assistant Chief fosters a positive and professional

working environment.

Second Assistant Chief

1. Assume Command in Absence of Chief and First Assistant Chief:

o The Second Assistant Chief steps into the role of commanding officer in the

absence of both the Fire Chief and the First Assistant Chief. This includes

managing emergency responses, directing operations, and ensuring the

safety and effectiveness of all activities.

2. Support the First Assistant Chief:

o The Second Assistant Chief provides support to the First Assistant Chief in

overseeing training, operational readiness, and compliance with safety

standards. This role includes assisting in the coordination of drills, training

exercises, and equipment maintenance.

3. Training and Development Support:

o The Second Assistant Chief assists with the planning and execution of

training programs, ensuring that all department members are prepared to

respond effectively to emergencies. This includes helping to organize training

schedules and monitor progress.

4. Operational Duties:

o The Second Assistant Chief is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day

operations of the department, ensuring that all personnel and equipment are

prepared for immediate deployment. This includes conducting inspections

and addressing any operational issues.

5. Safety and Compliance Monitoring:

o The Second Assistant Chief plays a key role in enforcing safety protocols and

ensuring that all department activities comply with NFPA standards and

state regulations. The Assistant Chief assists in conducting safety audits and

risk assessments.

6. Incident Documentation:

o The Second Assistant Chief assists in documenting incidents, training

sessions, and other significant activities. This includes ensuring that all

records are properly maintained and available for review by the Fire Chief

and other authorities.

7. Community and Public Relations:

o The Second Assistant Chief supports community engagement efforts,

participating in public safety programs, and representing the department at

community events. This role helps to strengthen the department’s

relationship with the public.

8. Leadership and Mentorship:

o The Second Assistant Chief mentors junior firefighters and officers, helping

them develop their skills and leadership abilities. The Assistant Chief works

to maintain a strong, cohesive team that is dedicated to the department’s

mission.

Both the First and Second Assistant Chiefs are expected to perform their duties with a high

level of professionalism, leadership, and commitment to the safety and well-being of the

department and the community it serves. They are integral to the effective operation of the

Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department and play a key role in ensuring its success.

§15.14 Duties of the Fire Captain

The Fire Captain is responsible for the following key duties within the Stanhope Borough

Volunteer Fire Department:

1. Leadership at Emergency Scenes: The Fire Captain shall assume command at

emergency incidents in the absence of higher-ranking officers, ensuring the effective

and safe operation of all firefighting and rescue efforts.

2. Training and Development: The Fire Captain is responsible for organizing and

leading regular training sessions for all department personnel, ensuring that all

firefighters are adequately trained and meet the necessary qualifications and

standards, including those set by the NFPA and the New Jersey Division of Fire

Safety.

3. Operational Oversight: The Fire Captain will supervise daily operations within the

firehouse, including equipment maintenance, readiness checks, and the preparation

of apparatus and gear to ensure that the department is fully prepared to always

respond to emergencies.

4. Compliance and Safety: The Fire Captain is tasked with enforcing departmental

policies and procedures, particularly those related to safety, and ensuring

compliance with all applicable regulations and standards.

5. Incident Reporting: The Fire Captain is responsible for completing detailed reports

on all incidents, training exercises, and other significant activities, and for ensuring

that these reports are submitted to the appropriate officers and the Borough Clerk

as required.

6. Community Engagement: The Fire Captain shall participate in community

outreach programs, fire prevention education, and other activities that promote

public safety and strengthen the relationship between the fire department and the

community.

7. Mentorship: The Fire Captain shall serve as a mentor to junior firefighters,

providing guidance, support, and leadership to help them develop their skills and

advance within the department.

The Fire Captain is expected to carry out these duties with the highest level of

professionalism, ensuring that the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department operates

efficiently and effectively in its mission to protect the community.

§15.15 Duties of the Fire Lieutenant

The Fire Lieutenant within the Stanhope Borough Volunteer Fire Department is

responsible for the following duties:

1. Support and Leadership: The Fire Lieutenant assists the Fire Captain in leading

the department, taking charge in the Captain's absence or when directed. The

Lieutenant is responsible for ensuring that all operations and duties are carried out

effectively and safely.

2. Training Assistance: The Fire Lieutenant plays a crucial role in the training and

development of department personnel. This includes assisting in organizing training

exercises, conducting drills, and ensuring that all firefighters maintain their

qualifications and meet departmental and state standards.

3. Operational Readiness: The Fire Lieutenant is responsible for overseeing the

maintenance and readiness of firefighting equipment, apparatus, and personal

protective gear. The Lieutenant ensures that all equipment is in proper working

order and that the firehouse is prepared for immediate response to emergencies.

4. Safety Enforcement: The Fire Lieutenant monitors safety practices within the

department, ensuring that all members adhere to safety protocols during training

and emergency operations. The Lieutenant also identifies potential hazards and

takes corrective actions to mitigate risks.

5. Incident Reporting: The Fire Lieutenant is responsible for assisting with the

documentation of all incidents, training exercises, and other departmental activities.

These reports are to be accurate and submitted promptly to the appropriate

officers.

6. Community Relations: The Fire Lieutenant participates in public outreach and

education programs, representing the department in the community and helping to

promote fire safety and prevention.

7. Mentorship and Guidance: The Fire Lieutenant mentors junior firefighters,

providing leadership, support, and guidance to help them grow within the

department. The Lieutenant fosters a positive and professional environment that

encourages teamwork and skill development.

8. Coordination with the Fire Captain: The Fire Lieutenant works closely with the

Fire Captain to ensure the smooth operation of the department. This includes

assisting with administrative tasks, coordinating training, and ensuring that all

department objectives are met.

The Fire Lieutenant is expected to perform these duties with a high level of commitment

and professionalism, contributing to the overall effectiveness and safety of the Stanhope

Borough Volunteer Fire Department.

§15.16 Fire Police Captain and Lieutenant

The Fire Police Captain is responsible for overseeing fire police operations, ensuring scene

safety and security, traffic control, and coordination with other emergency services. The

Lieutenant assumes the captain’s responsibilities in their absence. If both are unavailable,

the next senior fire police member will take over until the Captain or Lieutenant returns.

Duties of Firefighters

1. Incident Response:

o Every firefighter is required to promptly report to any fire, incident, or

operation involving the Fire Department within the borough, unless directed

otherwise by the Chief or any Assistant Chief.

2. Familiarization with Guidelines:

o Each firefighter must take responsibility for familiarizing themselves with

the Department's standard operating guidelines and fully understand the

chain of command.

3. Training and Compliance:

o Firefighters are required to regularly attend Department training drills and

ensure that they remain current with all mandated state and local training

requirements and meet the mandatory minimum duty requirements defined

above.

§15.17 Stipend and Volunteer Incentives

No salary or other compensation shall be paid to the Chief, Assistant Fire Chiefs, Captains

and Lieutenants, other staff officers and members of the Fire Department except that each

may receive such stipends and clothing allowances as made available by appropriations of

the Borough Council for those purposes, in accordance with relevant law and regulations.

Stanhope Borough may offer a volunteer incentive annually, subject to approval in the

Borough’s budget. This incentive, allocated on a tiered basis, will be available to members

who meet the minimum Duty Requirements for firematic activities, as defined by the Chief

level officers. The incentive does not apply to members who do not meet these

requirements.

§15.18 Drug & Alcohol Policy

The Stanhope Hose Company No. 1 maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding the

consumption of drugs and alcoholic beverages. Under no circumstances shall any member

of the department operate a department vehicle, respond to a call, or participate in any fire

or emergency-related activities if they have consumed any drugs or alcoholic beverages.

This policy is in place to ensure the safety of all personnel, the public, and the integrity of

our operations. Any violation of this policy will result in immediate disciplinary action, up

to and including termination. Our commitment to safety and professionalism is paramount,

and all members are expected to adhere to this standard without exception.

§15.19 Firematic Committee

The Firematic Committee consists of the Chief, First and Second Assistant Chief, Chair of

the Stanhope Public Safety Committee, Vice Chair of the Stanhope Public Safety Committee,

and the mayor. The committee will meet quarterly to review compliance with the Stanhope

Borough Volunteer Fire Department Ordinance, NFPA Standards, and NJ Division of Fire

Safety regulations. The Committee shall review quarterly report; review compliance with

the Borough ordinance, relevant NFPA standards, and the NJ Division of Fire Safety; and

other firematic issues as deemed relevant.

SECTION 2 - SEVERABILITY

If any provision of this Ordinance or the application of this Ordinance to any person or

circumstances is held invalid, the remainder of this Ordinance shall not be affected and shall

remain in full force and effect.

SECTION 3 - REPEALER

All ordinances or parts of ordinances or resolutions that are inconsistent or in opposition to

the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed in their entirety.

SECTION 4: EFFECTIVE DATE

This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption and publication in accordance

with law.

Note: The ordinance was adopted on March 25, 2025.