Chicago business owners could install electric security fencing to stop intruders if an ordinance is approved.
The City Council Finance Committee advanced an ordinance that allows business owners to use the electric fences as a security measure, despite objections from the Fire Department. Fire officials are concerned about accessing electrified properties in emergencies.
City officials say firefighters would have access to master keys in order to turn off the power, but Fire officials fear that is not enough to protect it's members.
If the ordinance passes, the electric fences in commercial properties would have to be surrounded by a non-electric outer fence, include posted warnings, and be at least eight-feet high.
Currently, security fences are only allowed to secure railroad facilities.
No word yet on when the ordinance will go before the full council.
