HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 1781
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1. TITLE 1
SECTION 2. PURPOSE 1
SECTION 3. 1990 NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE ADOPTED 1
SECTION 4. REGULATIONS OF T. U. ELECTRIC COMPANY ADOPTED 1
SECTION 5. PRIOR ORDINANCES REPEALED 1
SECTION 6. CONFLICTING REGULATIONS 1
SECTION 7. APPLICABILITY OF REGULATIONS 2
SECTION 8. EXEMPTIONS FROM COVERAGE UNDER THIS ORDINANCE 3
SECTION 9. MODIFICATION OR WAIVER OF REGULATIONS 3
SECTION 10. CHIEF ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR DESIGNATED 3
SECTION 11. SAFE AND DANGEROUS CONDmONS 4
SECTION 12. BOARD OF APPEALS 5
SECTION 13. APPEAL PROCEDURES 5
SECTION 14. PERMITS 5
SECTION 15. FAILURE TO OBTAIN PERMIT 6
SECTION 16. PERMIT FEES 6
SECTION 17. INSPECTIONS 8
SECTION 18. CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION 9
SECTION 19. CONTRACTOR LIABILITY INSURANCE 9
SECTION 20. ELECTRICAL LICENSE REQUIRED 9
SECTION 21. MINIMUM LICENSE QUALIFICATION CRITERIA 11
SECTION 22. RECIPROCAL LICENSE PROVISIONS 12
SECTION 23. ELECTRICAL LICENSING EXAMINATION PROCEDURES 12
SECTION 24. LICENSE EXAMINATION FEES 13
SECTION 25. ELECTRICAL LICENSE FEE SCHEDULE 13
SECTION 26. AREAS OF AUTHORIZED WORK 13
SECTION 27. REVOCATION OF LICENSE 14
SECTION 28. AMENDMENTS TO THE NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE 15
SECTION 29. PENALTY CLAUSE 16
SECTION 30. SEVERABILITY CLAUSE 16
SECTION 31. EFFECTIVE DATE 16
ORDINANCE NO. 1781
AN ORDINANCE BY THE CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND fiLLS TO BE KNOWN
AS THE NORTH RICHLAND fiLLS ELECTRICAL ORDINANCE; ADOPTING
THE NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE; ESTABLISHING ELECTRICAL LICENSE
REQUIREMENTS; REQUIRING THE REGISTRATION OF ELECTRICIANS;
REPEALING PREVIOUS ELECTRICAL ORDINANCES; PROVIDING A PENALTY
CLAUSE; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING A SAVINGS
CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS:
SECTION 1. TITLE
This Ordinance shall be known as the "North Richland Hills Electrical Code," may be cited as such, and will be
referred to herein as "this code".
SECTION 2. PURPOSE
The purpose of this Code is to provide minimum standards for promoting the health, safety and general welfare of
the City and to protect the lives, property and security of the City and its residents by regulating and controlling
the design, construction, installation, alteration, location, operation, inspection, and maintenance of electrical
equipment used for light, heat, power, radio, television, sigJI.!Jling and for other purposes; and by regulating and
licensing those persons who will install or maintain such electrical equipment.
SECTION 3. 1990 NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE ADOPTED
The National Electrical Code, 1990 Edition, published by the National FIre Protection Association and referred to
as "NEC", as amended herein by the provisions contained in this Ordinance, is hereby adopted as the Electrical
Code for the City of North Richland Hills, Texas, is incorporated herein by reference and a copy shall be filed in
the Office of the City Secretary.
SECTION 4. REGULATIONS OF TEXAS UTILITIES ELECTRIC COMPANY ADOPTED
The rules and regulations of the Texas Utilities Electric Company as contained in the document "Electric Service
Guidelines", and being the most recent issue on file with the City Secretary, are incorporated herein and made a
part of this Ordinance. Electrical permits issued as herein required may proceed toward completion under the
issue of "Electric Service Guidelines" on file with the City Secretary at the time said permit is issued.
SECTION 5. PRIOR ORDINANCES REPEALED
Ordinance No. 310, as amended by Ordinance Numbers. 417, 438, 874, 1136 & 1605 is expressly superseded by
the terms of this ordinance. Upon the adoption of this Ordinance, any Section of an Ordinance in conflict with
this Ordinance is hereby repealed.
SECTION 6. CONFLICTING REGULATIONS
In the event that a provision of the National Electric Code is in direct conflict with a provision contained in this
Ordinance or the Electric Service Guidelines of the Texas Utilities Electric Company, the provision contained in
this Ordinance, or the Electric Service Guidelines of the Texas Utilities Electric Company shall govern and take
precedence.
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SECTION 7. APPLICABILITY OF REGULATIONS
Unless otherwise expressly stated, this Ordinance shall apply to the following:
1. All electrical work and materials used in installing, maintaining or extending a system of electrical wiring
and all appurtenances, apparatus or equipment used in connection there-with, inside of or attached to any
building, structure, lot or premises located within the corporate limits of the City of North Richland Hills,
Texas shall be in conformance with this Ordinance and the National Electric Code, 1990 Edition. The
reference to electrical work shall apply to the installation of electrical wires, fixtures, built-in appliances,
apparatus, electrical signs, or the addition to any wires, fixtures, apparatus, or electrical signs used or to
be used on or in any building for the purpose of transmitting electrical current for electric light, heat,
house power, lighting fixtures, or for any purpose, of any kind, nature or description.
2. For all installations where existing electrical wiring or equipment is altered or added to, the provisions for
new installations will apply.
3. The electricity supply agency shall disconnect the electrical service to any building or premises, except
private residences and duplex apartments, each time such building or premises changes ownership, is
leased, or changes occupancy, and it shall not again supply electricity to such building or premises until
authorized to do so by the Chief Electrical Inspector. The owners or the new occupants of such buildings
or premises shall make application to the Chief Electrical Inspector for an inspection. The Chief Electrical
Inspector shall make a temporary power inspection within twenty-four hours, exclusive of Saturdays,
Sundays and Holidays, of the time such application is made or as soon thereafter as practicable.
4. It shall be unlawful for any person to connect to a supply of electricity, or to supply electricity to any
electrical equipment for the installation of which a permit is required, or which has been disconnected or
ordered to be disconnected by the Chief Electrical Inspector, or, except for private residences, which has
been disconnected for any reason whatsoever, until such connection has been authorized by the Chief
Electrical Inspector.
5. Electricity shall not be supplied to a part or parts of buildings or premises unless all of such buildings or
premises have been made to conform with the provisions of this Code.
6. All buildings or structures subjected to damage by deterioration by fire shall be inspected by the Chief
Electrical Inspector, and all unsafe wiring or electrical equipment shall be repaired or replaced in
accordance with this code.
7. If upon inspection an installation is found to be unsafe by reason of inadequate maintenance or repair, the
Chief Electrical Inspector may require that the electrical wiring or equipment be made to conform to the
provisions of this Code.
8. Except for mobile homes, the provisions of this Code shall apply to all buildings or structures moved into
or built in the City of North Richland Hills.
9. The regulations provided in this Code are hereby declared to be governmental and for the benefit of the
general public. Any member of the City Council, any City official or employee or any member of the
Board of Appeals charged with the enforcement of this code and acting for the City in the discharge of his
duty, shall not thereby render himself personally liable and he is hereby relieved from all personal
liability for any damage that may accrue to persons or property as the result of an act required or
permitted in the discharge of his duties.
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SECTION 8. EXEMPTIONS FROM COVERAGE UNDER THIS ORDINANCE
The provisions of this Ordinance shall not apply to the following:
1. The installation, alteration or repair of electrical equipment installed by or for an electrical supply agency
for the use of such agency in the generation, transmission, distribution or metering of electricity when
such equipment is located within or on such buildings or premises used by such an agency for said
purposes, or when such equipment is located on public thoroughfares; however, the provisions of this
Code shall apply to all other electrical installations or equipment used for any other purposes not
specifically excepted herein and located within or on such buildings or premises.
2. The installation or repair of general purpose household appliances by employees of appliance sales
businesses, provided that no alteration, modification or extension is made to the electrical system.
3. The installations and equipment employed by a railway utility in the exercise of its functions as a utility,
and located outdoors or in buildings used exclusively for that purpose, but the provisions of this Code
shall apply to installations and equipment used for light, heat, power, decoration, amusement, and all
other purposes located within or on such buildings or premises.
4. Radio equipment used exclusively for radio transmissions by persons or organizations licensed to operate
by the Federal Communications Commission; however, the provisions of this Code shall apply to all
electrical equipment used for the power supply to radio transmitting equipment.
5. The replacement of lamps or the connection of portable electrical equipment to suitably permanently
installed receptacles.
6. The installation, alteration, or repair of electrical equipment for the operations of signals or the
transmission of intelligence, or to installations of communications facilities by or for communication
agencIes.
7. Any work involved in the manufacturing or testing of electrical equipment or apparatus, except that this
exemption shall not include any permanent wiring.
8. Installations in mobile dwelling structures, trailers and other structures designed for portability.
9. The installation, alteration or repair of electrical equipment, devices, or conductors designed or used for a
voltage of twenty-four (24) volts or less.
10. Agencies of any federal, state or local government shall be exempt from the payment of licensing fees in
cases where the electrician performing the work is an employee of such agency and the work is to be
performed on premises owned or controlled by such agency. The exemption shall not void the
requirements of the 1990 N.E.C. or other requirements of this Code.
SECTION 9. MODIFICATION OR WAIVER OF REGULATIONS
The electrical regulations of this Ordinance may be modified or waived by special permission in cases where such
modification or waiver is reasonable and does not differ from the intent of this Ordinance. Such permission shall
be obtained from the Building Official or Chief Electrical Inspector upon written request and approval.
SECTION 10. CHIEF ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR DESIGNATED
1. The Building Official or his appointee is hereby designated as the Chief Electrical Inspector.
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2. The Building Official may appoint electrical inspectors to perform the inspection of electrical installations
as provided for in this Code. Where the term Building Official is used herein, it shall mean either the
Building Official or his authorized representative.
3. It shall be unlawful for the Building Officia~ Chief Electrical Inspector or any Electrical Inspector, while
employed by the City of North Richland Hills, to engage in the business of the sale, installation, repair or
maintenance of electrical equipment, either directly or indirectly, or to have financial interest in any
concern engaged in such business in the City of North Richland Hills, Texas.
4. It shall be the duty of the Chief Electrical Inspector to enforce the provisions of this Code. He shall,
upon proper application by any Master Electrician licensed by the City, issue permits for the installation
or alteration of electrical equipment, and shall make inspections of such installations or alterations, as
provided for in this Code.
5. The Chief Electrical Inspector shall be authorized during reasonable hours to enter any building or
premises in the discharge of his official duties, or for the purpose of making any inspection, reinspection,
or test of the electrical equipment contained therein, or its installation.
6. It shall be unlawful for any person to hinder or interfere with the Chief Electrical Inspector or any
Electrical Inspectors in the discharge of their duties under this Code.
7. The Chief Electrical Inspector shall keep records of all permits issued, inspections made and other official
work performed in accordance with the provisions of this Code.
8. The Chief Electrical Inspector shall have complete jurisdiction for enforcement of this code. Any
discrepancies by any person, organization, association, official, management, programs, department,
service, commission, agency, utilities, operation, office, director, or board shall have the right to appeal to
the Board of Appeals as prescribed herein.
SECTION 11. SAFE AND DANGEROUS CONDmONS
1. As used in this Code, "safe condition" as applied to electrical installation and electrical equipment means
installations and equipment which, in the opinion of the Electrical Inspector, can be used in the service for
which the same are intended or likely to be used with minimum hazard to life, limb, or property.
2. When any electrical equipment is found by the Electrical Inspector to be dangerous to persons or
property, he shall notify the persons or agent responsible for the electrical equipment in writing, and such
persons shall make any changes or repair which are required to make such equipment in safe conditions
within twenty-four hours, unless a longer period is specified by the Electrical Inspector in such notice.
3. When the person has been duly notified and does not make the required changes or repairs to the
electrical equipment within the period set out in the notice, then the Chief Electrical Inspector shall have
the authority to disconnect or order the electrical supply agency to disconnect such electrical equipment
and the premises in or upon which the same is located from the source of electricity.
4. In case of emergency, where necessary for safety to persons or property, or where electrical equipment
may interfere with the work of the Fire Department, the Chief Electrical Inspector shall have the
authority, without notice to anyone, to disconnect immediately or to cause the immediate disconnection of
any electrical equipment from the source of electrical supply. Only the Chief Electrical Inspector or his
deputies have such authority.
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5. The power company must notify the Chief Electrical Inspector to disconnect power except for non-
payment of bill.
SECTION 12. BOARD OF APPEALS
1. Appeals of persons aggrieved by orders or decisions made by the Chief Electrical Inspector, or his
assistants, or the Building Official which pertain to regulations contained in the Electrical Code shall be
heard by the Board of Appeals which is established under the provisions of the Building Code.
2. This Electrical Code shall be subject to any subsequent amendments made to the composition of the
Board of Appeals.
SECTION 13. APPEAL PROCEDURES
The procedures for submitting an application for an appeal regarding the Electrical Code shall be governed by the
rules and regulations contained in the Building Code and any subsequent amendments thereto.
SECTION 14. PERMITS
1. No person shall install electrical equipment within or on any building, structure or premises publicly or
privately owned, nor shall any person make any alteration or addition to any such existing equipment
without having first obtained a permit to do such work from the Chief Electrical Inspector unless, the
work consists of the installation or repair of general purpose household appliances by employees of
appliance sales businesses, provided that no alteration, modification or extension is made to the electrical
system.
2. Applications for an electrical permit shall be made in writing on forms furnished by the Chief Electrical
Inspector and indicate the correct street address of the premises, type of occupancy, the name of the
owner or occupants and include a description of the proposed work.
3. Unless a homeowner is performing the proposed electrical work on his own home, electrical permit
applications must be signed by a Master Electrician licensed with the City of North Richland Hills or his
designee. All Master Electricians shall provide the City with a list of persons authorized to obtain
electrical permits.
4. No electrical permit for any electrical work covered in this code shall be issued to any person other than
an Electrical Contractor registered with the City of North Richland Hills, except where a homeowner is
performing electrical work on his own place of residence.
5. No electrical permit shall be issued on any building, structure, or premises, either publicly or privately
owned if any unlawful electrical wiring or equipment exists on the same premises, except a permit to
correct such conditions, and all necessary corrections are made according to the provisions of this Code.
If a permit to correct defective wiring is issued, such work shall be started within forty-eight (48) hours of
issuance of the permit and completed without delay.
6. Electrical permits issued under the provisions of this ordinance shall be valid for a period of one year and
may be extended for an additional period of ninety days upon the payment of a fee equivalent to 25
percent of the original permit fee. If work for which an electrical permit is issued has not been started
within six calendar months from the date of issue, then such permit shall be null and void.
7. Plans, specifications, and schedules shall be required on all group A through I Occupancies as defined in
the Uniform Building Code when required by the Chief Electrical Inspector. Such plans shall be signed
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by a Texas Registered Professional Electrical Engineer or a Master Electrician licensed with the City of
North Richland Hills and shall be submitted and approved prior to the issuance of a Building permit. The
plans shall indicate all necessary information required, such as:
A. Calculated loads
B. Main and feeder size
C. Maximum short circuit current available at each point of application of each protective device
used on the project
D. Electrical panel location and clearances
8. No deviation may be made from the installation described in the permit without the written approval of
the Chief Electrical Inspector.
9. A separate permit may be required for each separate electrical servIce or meter installed when
determined appropriate by the Chief Electrical Inspector.
10. No permits shall be issued to any Electrical Contractor unless until all fees for prior permits and
inspections charged to him have been paid.
11. The Building Official may make and issue writiten administrative regulations in connection with the filing
of applications of permits by telephone, the filing and recording of applications and permits and the billing
and collecting of inspection and permit fees.
12. Electrical permits heretofore issued under existing ordinances shall continue to be valid for the time being
for which they are issued under the existing Electrical Code, but, upon expiration thereof, the same shall
be void.
SECTION 15. FAILURE TO OBTAIN PERMIT
When electrical work requiring a permit is found to be in progress or completed and no permit has been issued for
such work, the required permit fee shall be doubled and charged to the Master Electrician doing all or part of the
work. However, a double permit fee shall not be charged when the work is performed by a Master Electrician or
by a licensed Journeyman Electrician under the supervision of a licensed Master Electrician at night, on Saturdays,
Sundays or Holidays, so long as a permit for such work is obtained between 8:00 o'clock a.m. and 5:00 o'clock
p.m. on the first regular working day after such work has been done.
SECTION 16. PERMIT FEES
Prior to receiving an Electrical Permit, the applicant shall pay an Electrical Permit Fee according to the fee
schedules contained herein. Such fees shall cover the cost of regular and required inspections.
1. Permit fees for electrical work associated with the construction of new single family and multi family
residential units or an addition to an existing residential unit shall be calculated according to the following:
Number of square feet within controlled climate
area at $.04 per square foot plus $15.00.
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2. Permit fees for electrical work associated with residential remodeling or repair where the benefit area can
be determined shall be calculated according to the following schedule:
DESCRIPTION
OF WORK/AREA
PERMIT
FEE
500 SF or less
501 - 5,000 SF
5001 SF or more
$ 35.00
25.00 + .04 per sq. ft.
200.00 + .009 per sq. ft.
3. Permit fees for electrical work associated with the construction of a new, or an addition to an existing,
retail, commercial or industrial structure; or for remodeling or repairing an existing retail, commercial or
industrial structure; or for tenant finish of a retail, commercial or industrial structure; where the benefit
area can be determined shall be calculated according to the following schedule:
DESCRIPTION
OF WORK/AREA
PERMIT
FEE
500 SF or less $ 35.00
501 - 5,000 SF 25.00 + .04 per sq. ft.
5001 - 100,000 SF 200.00 + .009 per sq. ft.
100,001 - 500,000 SF 425.00 + .007 per sq. ft.
500,001 SF or more 1,500.00 + .005 per sq. ft.
4. Permit fees for electrical work associated with the construction of a new, or an addition to an existing,
warehouse or shell structure; or for remodeling or repairing of an existing warehouse or shell structure;
where the benefit area can be determined shall be calculated according to the following schedule:
DESCRIPTION
OF WORK/AREA
PERMIT
FEE
5,000 SF or less
5,001 to 10,000 S F
10,001 to 20,000 SF
20,001 S.F. and over
$ 50.00 + 0.008 S.F.
60.00 + O.OO6S.F.
80.00 + 0.004 S.F.
110.00 + 0.003 S.F.
5. Permit fees for electrical work which does not have a definable square foot area or is not covered as a
miscellaneous electrical item shall be calculated according to the following schedule, provided that no
permit fee shall be less than $12.50:
DESCRIPTION
OF WORK/AREA
PERMIT
FEE
Replace, Add or move an outlet or receptacle (each)
Replace, Add or move a branch circuit (each)
$ 3.50
12.50
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6. Permit fees for miscellaneous electrical items shall be calculated according to the following schedule:
DESCRIPTION
OF WORK
PERMIT
FEE
Accessory Building
Temporary Power Pole
Mobile Home Connection
Signs
Construction Trailer
30 Day Temporary Service
90 Day Temporary Service
Service Change
Swimming Pool/Hot Tub
Each Re-inspection
$ 12.50
15.00
15.00
15.00
15.00
15.00
30.00
15.00
20.00
30.00
7. No refunds shall be made for any Electrical Permits for work completed and inspected. When applicable,
refunded permit fees shall be calculated according to the following formula: 35 percent for plan review
fee and 65 percent for inspection fees.
SECTION 17. INSPECTIONS
1. It shall be unlawful for any person to place in operation any electrical equipment for which a permit is
required and which has not been inspected and approved by the Chief Electrical Inspector.
2. It shall be unlawful for any person to conceal any electrical equipment which has been disapproved or
condemned by the Chief Electrical Inspector unless and until the same has been so repaired or altered
that it complies with all provisions of this Code and has thereafter been approved by the Chief Electrical
Inspector.
3. When any electrical equipment is to be hidden from view by the permanent placement of parts of the
building or equipment, the Master Electrician installing the equipment shall notify the Chief Electrical
Inspector and such equipment shall not be concealed until it has been inspected and approved by the
Electrical Inspector.
4. The Electrical Inspector shall have the authority to require any person to uncover any wiring or electrical
equipment which has been concealed without the knowledge or permission of the Electrical Inspector.
5. Upon the completion of any installation of electrical equipment which has been made under a permit
issued pursuant to this Code, it shall be the duty of the Master Electrician making the installation to notify
the Chief Electrical Inspector who shall inspect the installation within twenty-four hours, exclusive of
Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays, of the time such notice is given.
6. Where the Electrical Inspector finds the installation to be in conformity with the provisions of this Code,
he shall issue to the Master Electrician making the installation a notice of conformance, which shall be
placed on the equipment or premises, authorizing the use of the installation.
7. When the Electrical Inspector has completed a Final Inspection of all electrical work, he shall notify the
agency supplying electric service to authorize connection of the conforming installation to such service.
8. All defective work shall be corrected and brought into conformity with the provisions of this Code. If,
upon inspection, an electrical installation does not conform with the provisions of this Code, the Chief
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Electrical Inspector shall issue a written notification of nonconformance to the Master Electrician making
the installation indicating the defects which have been found to exist or post a notice of nonconformance
on the job site. No further electrical work shall be permitted within or on the building or premises and
the Master Electrician making the installation will not be issued any other permits to perform any other
electrical work.
SECTION 18. CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION
As a prerequisite to obtaining electrical permits, any business operating under the provisions of this code for the
purpose of performing electrical installations in the City of North Richland Hills shall register as an electrical
contractor and pay an annual fee of $75.00 which shall be valid for one year from the date of issuance.
SECTION 19. CONTRACTOR LIABILITY INSURANCE
Prior to registration, all electrical contractors shall provide evidence of liability insurance in the amount of not less
than $300,000 per occurance for bodily injury, including death, and not less than $100,000 per occurance for
property damage.
SECTION 20. ELECTRICAL LICENSE REQUIRED
1. It shall be unlawful for any person to perform electrical work within the city limits of the City of North
Richland Hills without a valid electrical license issued by the City of North Richland Hills unless:
A. The person is an employee of an electrical supply company and is performing exempt work as
herein described, or;
B. The person is exempt from the license requirements or engaged in exempt work as herein
described, or;
C. The person is an employee of an appliance sales business involved in the installation or repair of
general purpose household appliances provided that no alteration, modification or extension is
made to the electrical system, or;
D. The person is a maintenance employee of a public or semi-public school and performing
electrical work at a public or semi-public school facility under the guidance and direction of a
licensed master or journeyman electrician, or;
E. The person is a home owner performing electrical work on his place of residence.
2. There is hereby created six (6) grades of licenses described as follows:
A. Master Electrician License
B. Journeyman Electrician License
C. Master Sign Electrician License
D. Journeyman Sign Electrician License
E. Residential Wireman Electrician License
F. Maintenance Electrician License
3. To be qualified to obtain a license after the adoption of this code from the City of North Richland Hills,
and to engage in the electrical business in a capacity for which a license is required by this Code, every
applicant for a license shall:
A. Provide written evidence of successfully passing a written examination given by the Tarrant
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County Electrical Examining Board for the grade of license sought; or,
B. Be the holder of a current valid electrician's license issued by another city located in the State of
Texas which has a current reciprocal agreement with the City of North Richland Hills and
provide a certificate or a letter of examination which states that the applicant has passed an
examination qualifying him for the grade of license for which he is applying, and said license and
certificate of examination has been determined to be comparable to the minimum licensing
requirements of the City of North Richland Hills: or,
C. Be the holder of a current valid electrician's license issued by the City of North Richland Hills
prior to the adoption of this ordinance.
4. Any license issued under the provision of this Code shall be valid for a period of one year from the date
of issuance and may renewed thereafter upon payment of the applicable license fee. A license holder
having an expired license over 90 days shall be required to reapply for a new license and comply with the
most current license and testing procedures.
5. The holder of any license issued under the reciprocal provisions of this Code shall be required to furnish
similar documentation as that of the initial license procedure prior to receiving the renewal license.
6. Licenses issued by the City of North Richland Hills prior to the adoption of this ordinance shall be valid
for the purposes of this ordinance until expired and shall only be renewed according to the licensing
provisions established elsewhere in this code.
7. No license in effect, issued, or renewed under the terms of this Code shall ever be transferred to or used
by any person other than the one to whom the same is issued, nor shall a holder of a license allow his
name or license to be used by any other person to obtain a permit or to perform work under such license.
8. Each holder of a license shall carry their license on their person at all times while performing electrical
work, and they shall produce and present such license immediately upon request by any Electrical
Inspector.
9. Each holder of a license shall provide the Chief Electrical Inspector with a written notice of his
permanent address, drivers license number if applicable and telephone number of his regularly
established place of business.
to. Each licensed Master Electrician and Master Sign Electrician shall have his company name and his
Electrician's license number permanently affixed on each front door of each truck or vehicle which said
electrician operated in connection with the installation, alteration or repair of electrical wiring, equipment
or signs within the city, in letters and numerals of at least two and one-half (2 1/2) inches in height. Such
name and number shall be the same for all vehicles so operated by anyone Licensed Master Electrician
or anyone Licensed Master Sign Electrician. Such name and number shall not be of the magnetic type.
11. This Code shall not be construed to affect the responsibility or liability of any party owning, operating,
controlling or installing any electrical equipment for damages to persons or properly caused by any defect
in such equipment or in the installation thereof, nor shall either any Electrical Inspector or the City
assume any liability by reason of the inspection or reinspection authorized in this chapter or by reason of
the certificates of conformance or nonconformance or by reason of the approval or disapproval of any
equipment authorized in this chapter or by the issuance of any permits or licenses.
12. Nothing in this Code shall be construed to prevent maintenance of specialized equipment by a
manufacturer of the equipment provided those persons that perform such maintenance work hold a valid
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Maintenance Electrician License.
SECTION 21. MINIMUM LICENSE QUALIFICATION CRITERIA
1. To be qualified to take an examination for and obtain a Master Electrician License, an applicant must
meet one of the following criteria:
A. Possess at least four (4) years expenence as a Journeyman Electrician ID the construction
industry; or
Be a graduate of a recognized Bureau of Apprenticeship Training, U.S. Department of Labor
electrical trade school with a four (4) year curriculum and have at least two (2) years experience
as a Journeyman Electrician; or
Be a graduate after majoring in electrical engineering from an accredited college or university
which has not less than a four (4) year curriculum and have at least one (1) year of practical
expenence.
B. A Master Electrician License may only register one electric company with the City of North
Richland Hills to satisfy any contractor registration requirements without additional registration
fees. An administrative charge of $25.00 per change of business or company name shall be
charged.
2. To be qualified to take an examination for and obtain a Journeyman Electrician License, an applicant
must meet one of the following criteria:
A. Possess at least four (4) years experience in the electrical construction industry, or
B. Be a graduate of a recognized Bureau of Apprenticeship Training, U.S. Department of Labor
electrical trade school with a four (4) year curriculum.
3. To be qualified to take an examination for and obtain a Master Sign Electrician License, an applicant
must meet one of the following criteria:
A. Possess at least three (3) years experience as a Journeyman Sign Electrician in the installation
and/or manufacturing of electrical signs, exclusive of experience devoted to non-electrical
components; or
B. Have graduated after majoring in electrical engineering from an accredited college or university
which has not less than a four (4) year curriculum and shall have at least eighteen (18) months
experience of practical electrical sign experience.
4. To be qualified to take an examination for and obtain a Journeyman Sign Electrician License, an
applicant must meet one of the following criteria:
A. Possess at least three (3) years experience in the installation of electrical sign or outline lighting
equipment,. exclusive of experience devoted to non-electrical components such as enclosures; or
B. Have two (2) years college credit majoring in electrical engineering in an accredited college or
university; including completion of that university or college published curriculum for freshman
and sophomore electrical engineering of electrical engineering major; and shall have had at least
eighteen (18) months experience of practical electrical sign experience.
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5. To be qualified to take an examination for and obtain a Residential Wireman Electrician License, an
applicant shall have at least two (2) years experience in the installation of electrical equipment in one and
two family dwellings.
6. To be qualified to take an examination for and obtain a Maintenance Electrician License, an applicant
must meet one of the following criteria:
A. Have four (4) years experience in maintaining and repairing electrical apparatus in the electrical
maintenance industry, or
EXCEPTION: A training license may be issued by the Chief Electrical Inspector with proof of
two (2) years experience.
B. Possess a certificate from an approved two-year service maintenance training school in lieu of the
required two years of experience. Written documentary information as to proof of experience
and education shall be required.
EXCEPTION: With approval of the Board of Appeals a Maintenance Electrician Training
License may be issued to training school graduates for the additional two years experience
required. This training license will allow a person who is employed by another Maintenance
Electrician with a valid license to do maintenance in the field of his training. The licensed
Maintenance Electrician shall be responsible for the trainees' work.
SECTION 22. RECIPROCAL LICENSE PROVISIONS
The Building Official is hereby authorized to initiate procedures to establish reciprocal agreements with other
cities or agencies whose procedures for issuing certificates of examination have been determined to be comparable
to the minimum licensing requirements of the City of North Richland Hills.
SECTION 23. ELECTRICAL LICENSING EXAMINATION PROCEDURES
1. A person wishing to be examined for one of the electrical licenses issued by the City of North Richland
Hills shall file a written application for such examination with the Chief Electrical Inspector at least thirty
(30) days before the date set for examinations. Such application shall state the grade of license for which
to be examined, and shall have attached thereto such documentary information as is required by this
Code and the Tarrant County Electrical Examining Board.
2. The Tarrant County Electrical Examining Board shall give written examinations to those applicants who
have satisfied the minimum qualification provisions of this Code for the grade of license for which he has
applied.
3. Examinations shall be given at such location, time and date as determined by the Tarrant County
Electrical Examining Board. The Chief Electrical Inspector shall notify each applicant of the exact date,
time and location of the examination.
4. The Board of Appeals shall grant and issue licenses to each applicant who shall make a grade of seventy
percent (70%) or better on the examination given; provided, that in no case shall a license be granted
until after payment by the applicant of the fee provided for in this section.
5. Any applicant who passes an examination for any grade of license and fails to obtain the license for the
grade of license as prescribed herein within a period of sixty working days of such examination date shall
13
forfeit his right to obtain such license until he again qualifies himself by passing another examination or
applies for a license as required herein.
SECTION 24. LICENSE EXAMINATION FEES
Each applicant for the Master Electrician's examination and each applicant for the Master Sign Electrician's
examination shall pay an examination fee of ftfty dollars ($50.00) to the City of North Richland Hills; and each
applicant for the Journeyman Electrician, Journeyman Sign Electrician, Maintenance Electrician, or Residential
Wireman Electrician examination shall pay an examination fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00) to the City of North
Richland Hills.
SECTION 25. ELECTRICAL LICENSE FEE SCHEDULE
Applicants for an electrical license shall pay an annual license fee according to the following license fee schedule:
LICENSE CLASS
ANNUAL FEE
A. Master Electrician License
B. Master Sign Electrician License
C. Journeyman Electrician License
D. Journeyman Sign Electrician License
E. Residential Wireman Electrician License
F. Maintenance Electrician License
$ 50.00
50.00
15.00
15.00
15.00
to.OO
SECTION 26. AREAS OF AUTHORIZED WORK
Only the following licenses shall be permitted to do the electrical work specified below:
1. MASTER ELECTRICIAN - A Master Electrician may contract for and engage in the business of
installing, repairing or replacing electrical wiring or equipment of any nature on or in buildings or
structures, including signs. The Master Electrician may employ and supervise Journeyman Electricians,
Master Sign Electricians, Journeyman Sign Electricians, Residential WlI"eman Electricians and
Maintenance Electricians, helpers and apprentice electricians.
2. JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIAN - A Journeyman Electrician shall be able to perform any type of
electrical work under the supervision of a Master Electrician, or perform any type of sign work under the
supervision of a Master Electrician or a Master Sign Electrician, but in no case shall a Journeyman
Electrician contract for or engage in the business of electrical work of any nature, except under the
supervision of either a Master Electrician or a Master Sign Electrician. A Journeyman Electrician shall
be able to layout work for and to supervise helper or apprentice electricians.
3. MASTER SIGN ELECTRICIAN - A Master Sign Electrician shall be able to contract for and engage in
the business of manufacturing and installing electrical signs, luminous gas or electric discharge signs and
luminous gas or electric discharge outline lighting from the secondary wiring power source or transformer
in the sign and to employ and supervise Journeyman Sign Electricians in the performance of such work on
such signs and/or outline lighting.
4. JOURNEYMAN SIGN ELECTRICIAN - A Journeyman Sign Electrician shall be able to perform any
type of sign and/or outline lighting work work of a Mast~r Electrician or Master Sign Electrician,
provided that such work must be performed under the supervision of a licensed Master Electrician or a
Master Sign Electrician.
14
5. RESIDENTIAL WIREMAN ELECTRICIAN - The Residential Wireman Electrician License restricts
the holder of such licenses to do electrical work in one and two family dwellings only. Electrical
contractors working electricians with a residential wireman electrician license must work such electricians
in one and two family dwelling sites only. Electrical contractors working electricians in other types of
construction will be subject to a citation as well as the electricians.
6. MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN - A Maintenance Electrician shall be able to perform the keeping in
safe repair of any and all electrical installations, apparatus, equipment and appliances and the keeping in
safe repair of electrical equipment within a building or in or on the premises where the Maintenance
Electrician is regularly employed on a permanent basis, for which an electrical permit is not required
under the terms and provisions of this Code.
7. A helper or apprentice electrician may perform electrical work only when the work is laid out for him
and supervised by a Master Electrician, a Master Sign Electrician, a Journeyman Electrician, a
Journeyman Sign Electrician, Maintenance Electrician, or a Residential Wireman Electrician.
8. The supervising Master Electrician, Master Sign Electrician, Journeyman Electrician, or Journeyman Sign
Electrician shall be on the job site.
SECTION 27. REVOCATION OF LICENSE
1. If, after a permit is issued to a named licensee under the provisions hereof, and said licensee abandons the
job, becomes incapacitated or his services are terminated prior to final inspection and approval by the
Building Official or Chief Electrical Inspector, the permit holder or the person engaging the services of
the Licensee shall immediately notify the Building Official. Upon such notification, the Building Official
or Chief Electrical Inspector shall immediately have an inspection made of the work completed to that
time, and he may revoke the outstanding permit and require that a new permit be obtained before the
work is allowed to resume.
2. A license or permit may be suspended, repealed or revoked by the Building Official or Chief Electrical
Inspector by reason of the occurrence of one or more of the following:
A. Fraud or misrepresentation in obtaining a license or permit; or
B. Violation of a provision of this Ordinance, or any other regulating ordinance of the City
applicable to the installation or alteration of appliances, equipment or systems as set forth in this
chapter; or
C. Conviction of defrauding a person for whom he has rendered or contracted to render service; or
D. Failure to obtain a permit or the attempted assignment of a permit; or
E. The sending of six (6) notifications within a six (6) month period of complaints that the licensee
is in violation of this Ordinance.
3. Upon suspension or revocation of said Master Electricians or Master Sign Electricians License, same shall
be null and void and no work thereafter may be performed thereunder.
4. Upon appeal to the Board of Appeals, said Board may affirm, revise, or modify such suspension or
revocation.
15
SECTION 28. AMENDMENTS TO THE NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE
The 1990 National Electrical Code is hereby modified by the following amendments. These amendments shall
have precedence in any case where they are in conflict with the NEe.
1. Article 110-5 is amended to read as follows:
Conductors: Conductors normally used to carry current shall be of copper. Aluminum and copper-clad
aluminum conductors may be used only in services to the meter base. All branch circuits shall be wired
with copper only. Aluminum or copper-clad aluminum shall not be used for system grounding. Where
the conductor material is not specified, the sizes given in this Code shall apply to copper conductors.
Where other materials are used, the size shall be changed accordingly.
2. Armor clad (A/C) cable is a permitted installation provided that it carries a green ground wire.
3. No underground primary electrical service wiring shall be allowed within five feet of the edge of the
water of a swimming pool.
4. All grounding electrodes shall be made of copper.
5. Article 210.4 is amended to read as follows:
Multiwire Branch Circuits
(d) Identification of Underground Conductors. Where more than one nominal voltage system exists
in a building, each underground system conductor shall be identified by phase and system. For
existing installations, this applies only to new circuits, extensions, or alteration. The means for
identification shall be permanently posted at each branch-circuit panelboard.
6. Article 210-63. is amended to read as follows:
Heating, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration Equipment Outlet. A 125-volt, single phase, 15 or 20
ampere rated receptacle outlet shall be installed at an accessible location for the servicing of heating, air-
conditioning, and refrigeration equipment on rooftops and in attics and crawl spaces. The receptacle shall
be located on the same level and within 25 feet of the heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration
equipment. The receptacle outlet shall not be connected to the load side of the equipment disconnecting
means.
7. Article 300-4. is amended to read as follows:
Protection Against Physical Damage. Where subject to physical damage, conductors shall be adequately
protected.
(d) Cables and Raceways Parallel to Framing Members. In both exposed and concealed locations,
where a cable or raceway-type wiring method is installed parallel to framing members, such as
joists, rafters, or studs, the cable or raceway shall be installed and supported so that the nearest
outside surface of the cable or raceway is not less than 11/4 inches from the nearest edge of the
framing member where nails or screws are likely to penetrate. Where this distance cannot be
maintained, the cable or raceway shall be protected by penetration by nails or screws by a steel
plate, sleeve, or equivalent at each support location at least 1/16 inch thick. This measurement
requirement is from the exposed edge only.
16
SECTION 29. PENALTY CLAUSE
It shall be unlawful for any person to install, alter or repair any electrical equipment in the City or cause the same
to be done contrary to or in violation of any of the provisions of this Code. Any person, firm or corporation who
violates, disobeys, omits, neglects, or refuses to comply with or who resists the enforcement of any of the
provisions of this Code shall be fined not more than two hundred dollars for each offense. Each day that a
violations is permitted to exist shall constitute a separate offense.
SECTION 30. SEVERABILITY CLAUSE
That it is hereby declared to be the intention of the City Council that the section, paragraphs, sentences, clauses
and phrases of this ordinance are severable, and if any phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or section of this
ordinance shall be declared invalid or unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of any court of competent
jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality shall not affect any of the remaining phrases, clauses, sentences,
paragraphs or sections of this ordinance, since the same would have been enacted by the City Council without the
incorporation in this ordinance of any such invalid or unconstitutional phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or
section.
SECTION 31. EFFECTIVE OA TE
This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage.
PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL THIS 10TH DAY OF FEB., 1992.
A TIEST:
- 1 w#/...x~--V^V
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(----]b~¡J£~
~SECRETARY
CITY
ELECfRICAL PERMIT FEES
I I i
I I i
NEW 50,875 SF INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL BUILDING
Ii!
FEE
ARLINGTON
BEDFORD
EULESS
GRAPEVINE
HALTOM CITY
HURST
KELLER
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS (NEW)
¡NORTH RICHLAND HILLS (OLD)
I I
I I
$1,800.00
$1,600.00 -
$1,400.00 -
$1,200.00 ~
$1,000.00 -
$800.00 ~
$600.00 -
$400.00 -
$200.00 -
$0.00 -
.........
. . . .
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1 Arlington - based on .0257 SF + $329.00. I
2 Bedford - based on the number of fixtures, motors and outlets.
3 Euless - based on the number of fixtures, motors and outlets.
4 Grapevine - based on .01 SF + $25.00 I I
5 Haltom City - based on the number of fixtures, motors and outlets.
6 Hurst - based on the number of fixtures, motors and outlets.
7 Keller - based on the number of fixtures and outlets.
8 NRH (New rate) - based on square foot formula.
9 NRH (Old rate) - based on square foot formula.
NOTES:
$1,639.49
$477.95
$456.50
$537.88
$1,377.50
$452.95
$502.00
$657.88
$487.88
ARL
BFD
EUL
GPV
HC
HST
KLR
NRHN
NRHO
ELECfRICAL PERMIT FEES
I Ii
. I
2000 SF SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE
I
I CITY
I
I ARLINGTON
¡BEDFORD
i EULESS
I
GRAPEVINE
HALTOM CITY
HURST
KELLER I
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS (NEW)
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS (OLD)
$120.00 r
$100.00 t
$80.00 -
$60.00 -
$40.00 -
$20.00 -
$0.00 -
.......- h:
1l1li1---1-
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NOTES:
1 Arlington - .043 SF I
2 Bedford - based on square foot groupings.
3 Euless - included as a part of the building permit fee.
4 Grapevine - based on square foot formula. I
5 Haltom City - based on .035 SF + $15.00 Amin. fee.
6 Hurst - $40.00 for a 4 bedroom home.
7 Keller $47.00 for a two bathroom home.
8 NRH (new rate) - .040 SF + $15.00.
9 NRH (old rate) - based on square foot groupings.
z
::r:
0::
z
I
I
I
I
FEE
I I
i $106.00
$75.00
$0.00
$62.60
$85.00
$40.00
$47.00
$95.00
$75.00
o
::r:
0::
z
I
I
I
I
I
I
IARL
IBFD
EUL
GPV
HC
HST
IKLR
NRHN
!
INRHO
I
ELECTRICAL PERMIT FEES
I I
I I
10' X 20' RESIDENTIAL ROOM ADDITION
I I I
I I
! i
i
I CITY
I
I
I
¡ARLINGTON
BEDFORD
EULESS
GRAPEVINE
HALTOM CITY
I HURST
¡KELLER
I NORTH RICHLAND HILLS (NEW)
I
¡NORTH RICHLAND HILLS (OLD)
$30.00
$25.00 -
$20.00 -
$15.00 -
$10.00 ~
$5.00 -
$0.00 -
-
---
I I I I l1li I I
I I I I l1li I I
I I I I I I I I
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NOTES:
1 Arlington - based on .043 SF with a $25.00 minimum.
2 Bedford - based on number of fIXtures with a $15.00 minimum
3 Euless - based on the number of fixtures and outlets. II
4 Grapevine - based on square foot formula. I
5 Haltom City - based on the number of fixtures and outlets.
6 Hurst - Minimum fee is $5.00 I I
7 Keller - based on the number of fixtures and outlets.
I
8 NRH (new rate) - $17.50 flat fee. I
9 NRH (old rate) - based on number of fixtrues.
:z:
::c
0::::
:z:
FEE
$25.00
$15.00
$16.00
$25.00
$18.75
$5.00
$15.00
$17.50
$30.00 I
""
o
:::c
0::::
:z:
ARL
BFD
EUL
GPV
HC
HST
KLR
NRHN
NRHO
CITY
ELECfRICAL PERMIT FEES
I I I
Ii,
I I I
NEW 5,200 RESTAURANT COMMERCIAL BUILDING
I ¡
I
FEE
,¡ARLINGTON
BEDFORD
EULESS
GRAPEVINE
HALTOM CITY
HURST
¡KELLER
! NORTH RICHLAND IDLLS (NEW)
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS (OLD)
$213.36
$228.70
$160.15
$152.40
$458.45
$161.70
$172.15
$246.80
$166.80
ARL
BFD
EUL
GPV
HC
HST
KLR
NRHN
NRHO
$500.00
$450.00
$400.00
$350.00
$300.00
$250.00
$200.00 -- -
.~
$150.00 - . . . .
$100.00 - . . . .
$50.00 - I' I' I' I'
$0.00 -
--.J 0 ---I >
0:: '-'- =:J CL
<J: co LLJ G
--~
. . . . -
. . . .
.... -'I
u c- 0:: :z 0
en ---'
::r: ::r: :è<:: ::r: ::r:
0:: 0::
:z :z
NOTES:
1 Arlington - based on .0343 SF + $35.00
2 Bedford - based on the number of fixtures, motors and outlets.
3 Euless - based on the number of fixtures, motors and outlets.
4 Grapevine - based on .01 SF + $25.00 I I
5 Haltom City - based on the number of fixtures, motors and outlets.
6 Hurst - based on the number of fixtures, motors and outlets.
7 Keller - based on the number of fixtures and outlets.
8 NRH (New rate) - based on square foot formula.
9 NRH (Old rate) - based on square foot formula.
-----------
LEGAL AFFIDAVIT
.' \k.~(;~~~f.ifOE ~,"~1;>/;;:~
An ordinance p~d bY the City Council of. the ..~
of North Rlchland Hlns adopting the National S~
trlc COd..; IIstabllshlnglicenslng requlremer,¡¡¡;
providing, for certain exempt!ons;provld!ng~r
penilits and rules governing IlISUance of perl'1Wt8¡
requiring .electrical contractor registration 1íJ'!ä
providing for rules in connection therewith; JIC9-
vidlng for a fine of not more that $200.00 for violà·
tlon and providing for an effective date.
Passed and epproved by the City Council oltb.e
City of Nortl'l Richtand Hills. Texas this 10th day..of
. February 1992. .'~
APPROVED:
Isl TommY Brown
Mayor
ATTEST:
Isl Jeanette Rewis
City Sec;ret¡try
APPROVED AS TO .FORM AND LEGALITY:
Isl Rex MêEntite . .
Attorney for the Ci\y
MCN ÇPI'U31
PUB: (}j!/13/92
TIlE STATE OF TEXAS:
COUNTY OF TARRANT
Before me, the undersigned authority on this day personal1y ap-
peared MARG I E LANGLEY
known to me to be a credible person, who
first being sworn, deposed and upon her oath said:
That she is the C. L . A. R.
of the MID CITIES NEv,IS
, a newspa-
per which has been regularly and continuously published and of general
circulation in the City/Town of N. RICHLAND HILLS ,for a period of
.more than one year next preceding the first publication of the attached
LEGAL AD
and that he caused said notice to be published in
d - "'\ - t ~ . ~_"\
said newspaper on the following ate(s). ~ ~ . ¡ ~
That the ¡attached is a true and correct copy of said notice as
.
published on said date(s) in aaid ~PAPER, ~M
Sworn to and subscribed before m~s thef ttl.';;ay o~.
19~
/~:-~.N\.Q-X~C/)'(\C\_'¿::()'~
Notary Publie,
"-_...,---~ f) D ~. :....,. .~ ' .., t',·, .':.r" ./!""
A!\/\M. r _/ou¡1t~, J. ,. ;dlò